Frank Lee Nelson

On November 18, 2021, Frank Lee Nelson passed away at his family home in Garden City, MO at the age of 84, surrounded by those who loved him.

Frank was born in Shawnee, OK on May 4, 1937 to M Emzier and Mae Nelson. He spent his childhood and early youth in Shawnee working with horses, running track and breaking several track records. He was an amazing singer and guitar player and played and sang at many establishments throughout his life. He was a Master Mason for 54 years.

Frank began working summers in California ultimately becoming a union member of the Operating Engineers Local 12 in 1955 and remaining a member for the next 66 years until his death. He was General Manager of both Werner Corporation and Hill Crane Corporation and managed the building of many famous structures throughout California: The Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, attractions at Knotts Berry Farm, Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Universal Studios to name a few.

Later in life, he started a business called Research Consultants, where he was an expert witness on crane and industrial accidents. He was a master billiard player and held three patents for his pool training ball and tools "Measure Your Shot".

Frank loved and cared for his family and he and his wife Jenny built a terrific and wonderful life together over their 63 years of marriage. He would listen and help anyone who needed it. He was a trusted advisor to friends, extended family and of course a huge champion for his wife and children. His legacy is a tremendous one and his passing will be felt by many.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jenny Kay Nelson and his three children, Stephanie Nelson Walsh of Bakersfield, CA, Neil Nelson of Garden City, MO, and Denise Plante of Castle Rock, CO. Very dear to him were his 6 grandchildren: Ashley, Michael, Brooklyn, Austin, Chandler, and Wyatt, along with his 5 great-grandchildren: Hayden, Durden, Solomon, Catherine, and Walter.

A funeral ceremony for Frank will be held on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at 2:00 pm at the Walker Funeral Chapel in Shawnee. Following the ceremony, he will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery. Those serving as casketbearer will be: Neil Nelson, Wyatt Plante, Austin Plante, Ashley Walsh, Michael Allegrini, Brooklyn Walsh, and Chandler Walsh.

Frank's family will be available to greet friends during visitation on Tuesday, November 23rd from 4-6pm at Walker Funeral & Cremation Service.