In Memoriam: Frank T. Maziarski, CRNA, MS, CLN (1930-2025)

September 28, 1930 – April 30, 2025 

Former AANA President Frank T. Maziarski, CRNA, MS, CLN, passed away on April 30, 2025, at the age of 94. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to advancing the nurse anesthesiology profession. 

He served as AANA president from 2004 to 2005, preceded by key roles including director of Region 5 (1999–2001), vice president (2001–2002), and president-elect (2003–2004. Maziarski also held numerous leadership roles within the Washington Association of Nurse Anesthetists (WANA), including President, President-Elect, Vice President, Treasurer, and Board Member.  

Maziarski earned both his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science (MS) degrees from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and completed his anesthesia training at Albany Medical Center School of Nurse Anesthesia in New York. 

Maziarski commitment to education continued throughout his 21-year career in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps. He was only the second male registered nurse to be commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps, where he served as an anesthesia provider and later as a respected educator at the Academy of Health Sciences Schools of Nurse Anesthesia, where he directed both the didactic (Phase I) and clinical (Phase II) components of the training programs. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel at Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso, Texas. 

His military service included a tour as Chief Nurse Anesthetist at the 93rd Evacuation Hospital in Long Binh, Vietnam, from July 1968 to July 1969, during which he provided care under the most challenging conditions in a combat zone. He will be remembered for his passionate advocacy for nurse anesthesia education and the critical roles CRNAs play in both civilian and military settings, particularly within the Veterans Affairs (VA) health system.

Maziarski’s advocacy helped advance the standing of CRNAs in national healthcare policy and education. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored in 2010 with the Agatha Hodgins Award, the AANA’s highest accolade, celebrating his influence, mentorship, and dedication to the nurse anesthesia profession. 

In 2006, Maziarski was also inducted into the Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA) Hall of Fame. In recognition of his storied career, WSNA said “Frank is a pioneer in expanding the role for men in nursing. He is a shining example to all men who contemplate a lifelong career in nursing. His long career as an educator has directly guaranteed the progress of our profession by producing hundreds of quality graduates… Frank has truly distinguished himself at all levels of the nursing profession.” 

Per Maziarski’s wishes, no services will be held. Notes of condolence may be sent to AANA and will be forwarded to his daughter.