HARPER, Kan. – Frank Kelemete, as he was commonly known, was born Isitolo Fakaanga Kelemete, June 3, 1947, in Lapaha of the Tonga Islands, to Siaosi Mafi Kelemete, of Lapaha, and Silia Vaka (Tavake) Kelemete, of Fatumu.
Frank attended St. Paul Catholic School from grade one through eight, and then went to Apifoou College for two years. After farming in Tonga for a few years after school, Frank moved to the United States in 1969 with the help of his uncle, Titali Tavake. First living in California, he moved to Arkansas, and then Kansas. This is when he met his wife, Sharon Kay Shannon. The couple moved to Florida and then Salt Lake City, Utah. Meeting up with his best friends, Saia Fonua, Hala Moataane, and Siua Tupou, they all moved back to Kansas, settling in Burlingame, Kan.
Everywhere Frank lived, he worked in construction and carpentry, but raising animals was his passion. After living in Burlingame for several years, Frank moved to Harper, Kan., to live with his nephew, namesake, and adopted son, Little Frank Kalemete. This is where he passed away March 3, 2022, at the age of 74.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Siaosi and Silia Kelemete; and siblings, Feleti Thompson Siale and Soane Siale.
He is survived by his wife, Sharon Kelemete, Topeka, Kan.; nephew, Isitolo Fakaanga “Little Frank” Kelemete and his wife, Randi, Harper; brothers, Eddie Kelemete and his wife, Akanete, Redwood City, Calif., and Kiveni Siale, of New Zealand; sisters, Sisi Siale and Telisi Kavaefiafi, both of Tonga; grandchildren, Lawson Aguilar, Jax Kelemete, Eleanor Kelemete, and Hazel Kelemete; and nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Friends may view and register from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, at Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W. 14th St., Harper. Family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, March 10. Shortly before 1 p.m., there will be a blessing before everyone departs and proceeds to the Harper Cemetery for a graveside service, with Father Bob Pinninti officiating.
Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society and sent in care of Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W. 14th St., Harper, KS 67058. Condolences can be left at www.prairierosefuneralhomes.com.
