Frauke (Buck) Zilinek, of Newtown, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026, at Danbury Hospital. She was 84 years old.

Born on July 15, 1941, in Hamburg, Germany, Frauke's early life was marked by hardship. Orphaned at a young age and raised amid the challenges of post-war Germany, she developed a resilience and determination that would define her throughout her life. Despite difficult circumstances, she embraced life's joys whenever she could, including sneaking out as a young woman to hear an up-and-coming local band called The Beatles perform in Hamburg clubs before they became worldwide legends.

Her life changed forever when she met a young American airman, Michael J. Zilinek, during his service with the United States Air Force in Germany. Frauke often said that meeting Mike “saved” her and changed the course of her life. They married on July 17, 1962, and together built a loving family and a life filled with opportunity, friendship, and lasting memories.

Frauke is survived by her sons, Michael, Erik, and Christopher, and their spouses; seven beloved grandchildren; and her cherished adopted dog, Lucky.

She was predeceased by her husband, Michael, whom she deeply loved and missed.

Known throughout the greater Danbury area for her warmth and generosity, Frauke built a successful career as a hairstylist and entrepreneur. In the late 1980s, she opened Creative Waves in Danbury, which she operated for more than two decades. Her clients became lifelong friends, and she was known for going above and beyond to help them look and feel their best during life's special moments.

Outside of work, Frauke found joy in gardening, cooking, and spending time with family. She loved sharing traditional German recipes, especially her potato salad, cucumber salad, and Pflaumenkuchen. Nothing brought her greater happiness than family gatherings and time spent with her granddaughters, whom she affectionately called her “medicine.”

A lifelong Beatles fan, Frauke passed her love of the band's music to her children and grandchildren. In her final hours, Beatles songs once again filled the room, bringing comfort and peace.

Frauke's legacy is one of resilience, kindness, and devotion to family. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pets for the Elderly Foundation, honoring her lifelong love of animals and the companionship they bring.