Frank Nelson

Frank Orville Nelson, 91 of Manhattan, died Monday, January 2, 2023 at the Good Samaritan Society-Valley Vista Nursing Center in Wamego.

He was born on August 12, 1931 in Manhattan, the son of Frank Emil and Virginia Marian (Mayfield) Nelson.  Frank graduated from Riley High School in 1949.

On August 26, 1950, at the First Presbyterian Church in Manhattan, he was united in marriage to Sylvia Louise (Spain) Nelson.  

Frank is survived by one son, Gary D. Nelson of Atlanta, Georgia; two daughters, Debra K. Nelson of Manhattan and Laura N. Wood of Mankato, Minnesota; a brother, Glen Nelson of Manhattan; a sister, Dorine Bergren of Manhattan; nine grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Sylvia of 65 years and one sister, Marion Charlotte Ewing.  

Following 17 years of employment with Manhattan Motors, Frank became the owner of Frank’s Phillips 66 in Manhattan until his retirement. Throughout his retirement he received words of deep appreciation and praise from the many young people he employed.

Frank especially enjoyed sports and was a die-hard K-State fan. For many years he was also a favorite baseball coach to many Manhattan youth with whom he instilled a competitive spirit and confidence.  

Frank was truly passionate about his music.  He was active in church choir, and round/square dancing where he frequently sang at special events and also served as a dedicated round dance caller and instructor.  A song or dance was always to be expected whenever the family came together.

Later, during his retirement years, Frank and Sylvia enjoyed traveling throughout the Western U.S. residing in Yellowstone National Park and Surprise, Arizona before returning to Manhattan.  Soon after his family would learn from him the importance of compassionate caregiving.

Frank’s life was consumed by love for his children and their families.  He cherished time spent with family and with pride kept a watchful eye on them over time and distance.  He was a Christian loving husband, father, son, brother, grandparent, coach and teacher. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and Trinity Presbyterian Church in Manhattan. He derived much pleasure as a Bible schoolteacher and volunteer. 

Memorial services will be held at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home on January 13, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. D. Erich Schwartz officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Accord Hospice in Manhattan.  Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.