Frank Ellenbecker, 96, of Prairie Village, KS, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2011 at Providence Place, KCK, where he was cared for following a stroke. Visitation will be Sun., Sept. 4th, from 2-4 p.m., followed by a Rosary at McGilley & Hoge Chapel, 8024 Santa Fe, O.P., KS. Mass will be held at 10:30, on Tues., Sept. 6, at Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Overland Park, KS where he was a member of the parish since 1959. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Frank was born January 28, 1915, in Marysville, KS. He was the youngest of the six children of Frank A. Ellenbecker and Mary (Cooper). The family moved to Topeka in 1927. After graduation from Topeka High School, he went on to study mechanical engineering at KU. He worked in manufacturing and always took great pride in his work. His wife, Nora, (George) preceded him in death in 1958. After that, he devoted his life to raising his two girls. He was a good, kind man, an extraordinary father and grandfather. A lifelong Democrat, his hero was FDR. He tapped his toe to jazz and musicals nightly. Frank enjoyed gardening and watching his favorite teams, the Jayhawks and Notre Dame. He rarely missed the Kentucky Derby. He read voraciously, especially history, had a sharp mind and entertained many with his wonderful, colorful stories. Frank is survived by his daughters, Mary Ann Ellenbecker, K.C., MO and Sallie Amir (Kareem), Shawnee, 3 grandchildren: Jessica Amir-Foote (Jon), Wichita, David Amir and Joseph Amir, Shawnee. In lieu of flowers, suggested memorial contributions are Kansas City Hospice or Duchesne Clinic. The family would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone that helped to care for him, both at home and at Providence Place. Please offer condolences at www.mcgilleyhoge.com. McGilley & Hoge Chapel, 8024 Santa Fe Dr, Overland Park, KS 66204, 913-642-3565

Published in Kansas City Star from September 3 to September 4, 2011