Frank W. Cermak

Frank William Cermak, 76, of Rexford, NY, passed away peacefully in the arms of his daughter on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Frank was born on February 4, 1950, in Schenectady, New York, to Frank and Mary Cermak. He graduated from Niskayuna High School in 1968. A bartender by trade, Frank became well known as a legend behind the hardwood. Some of his favorite memories — and certainly some of his best stories — came from the 33 years he spent behind the bar, serving friends, family, and anyone who needed an ear or a pick-me-up.

In 1979, Frank fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening the Main Street Tavern in Ballston Lake. Over the years, he spent countless nights — many you may not remember — tending the bar at Brandon’s Ritz Terrace and, perhaps his most beloved of all, The Fireside. Even when he wasn’t behind the bar, Frank’s favorite place was still among friends and family: at the track, in Lake George, on the golf course, at clam bakes, or at family gatherings.

Later in life, Frank found a new passion, working as a bus driver for the Niskayuna Central School District. He genuinely loved going to work, and right up until the very end, his sights were set on getting back behind the wheel of his bus.

Frank was an avid sports fan who faithfully rooted for the New York Giants, Detroit Red Wings, and Baltimore Orioles. His greatest sports passion however, was horse racing; he was reading the racing form for the Preakness just a day before he passed. Beyond sports, Frank dearly loved his dogs — Jesse, Riley, and Brodie — as well as his grand-pup, Miller.

Frank also had a passion for music, often listening to 60’s Doo-Wop and attending Oldies shows at Proctor’s Theatre with Nikki. When not at shows, at Stewart’s, watching sports, or sitting outside with the dogs, you could find Frank napping to Aerial America.

Above all else, Frank loved his family and friends. He treasured every moment spent catching up with someone (usually at the Rexford Stewart’s) - using that time to proudly share stories about his wife, children, grandchildren, and loved ones. He never got sick of telling stories from the “good old days,” laughing just as hard each time he told them. Frank was deeply proud of his family and eternally grateful for all the friendships that filled his life.

Frank is predeceased by his sister, Kathy Cermak Smith; his brother, John Cermak; and his parents, Frank and Mary Cermak.

He is survived by his wife, Kerry A. (Ciarmello) Cermak; his children, Leah Dimler (Michael), Samantha Daniels (John), Frankie Cermak (Lauren), and Nikki Cermak; his grandchildren, Ian, Sloane, Hannah, and Cassidy; his sister, Anne Mancuso (George); as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

In accordance with Frank’s wishes, traditional funeral services will not be held. Instead, a Celebration of Life will take place — at a bar, of course. Details for the Celebration of Life will be shared at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Frank’s name may be made to the Autism Society of America, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Suite 305, Rockville, MD 20852, or to the Niskayuna Community Foundation, 2 Tower Place, Albany, NY 12203.