Frank Austin Kelley

Sunrise for Frank Austin Kelley began as an energetic and smart child who was eager to explore and to please. Frank was born at Sheppard Air force Base, in Wichita Falls, Texas to Shirley-Jean Wheeler (Kelley) and Keith Franklin Kelley. He grew up in a home filled with love that included three younger brothers, all eager to follow Frank's lead as the oldest son. Frank never failed to model good and positive things for them in that he was a grounded family man, a brilliant scholar, and a man whose full and meaningful life has left us with great memories and an unforgettable legacy. Frank's vibrant life was colored by numerous adventures in youth, domestic and international travels, a memorable family life, and a rewarding career. The Quiet Storm known as Frank Kelley is, indeed, a memorable man who lived and approached life on his own terms. Frank accomplished much and contributed much to an industry in which he gained renown, yet he never compromised his integrity. Beginning after college and until his retirement in 2018, Frank worked for two notable companies – Caterpillar and Mercury Marine. His career path began in chemical engineering, where he developed products and earned a distinguished reputation as a tribologist. As an officer with the professional organization, STLE, he further collaborated with like minds to contribute innovative ideas to the tribologist community. Good music was very dear to Frank. He played alto saxophone and Fender Rhodes electric piano. This culminated in his playing with The ABB Plus Band (Alexander Brothers Band), with the plus representing the feature of Frank and Kenneth Kelley and lead vocalist Morris Jackson. The band played throughout Central Illinois and was the house band for the Elks Peter H. Clark Lodge and the Player’s Lounge, both in Peoria, Illinois. Frank appreciated meaningful lyrics and dynamic vocals with a romantic twist. It's no wonder that his favorite singer was Lou Rawls, with Luther Vandross a close second. Frank's velvety and articulate voice seemed to mimic that of the maestro Barry White. Early in life, Frank married the lovely Susan Givens, who preceded him in death. Together, they raised four brilliant children, Kathryn, Christopher, Andrea, and Matthew. Cherishing Frank's memories are his devoted and caring wife, Rita Hale; his dear and devoted children, Kathryn and Christopher Kelley (Alyssa), Andrea, and Matthew; and his dear grandchildren De'Niya, Mason, Austin, Brayden, Quentin, and Khalil. Frank's 3 brothers, Kenneth, Gregory, and Donald, have remained a source of inspiration to him. Donald's wife, Marsha, was like the sister he never had. Frank was also blessed with a host of nieces and nephews, who loved their Uncle Frank a bunch. Family was everything to Frank, and this was evidenced by his desire to attend each family reunion when he could, no matter the destination. He truly valued the time spent connecting with loved ones, and understood the importance of extended family and fellowship. In addition to the Hale Family, there are a host of other family and colleagues who will forever hold dear the memory of Frank Austin Kelley. He is remembered for his mild and warm demeanor, which greeted you even before his larger-than-life presence and heart. He is already dearly missed. A sunset can be just as memorable and beautiful as a sunrise, and this is evidenced by the life and transition of Frank Austin Kelley. Few do it better, and Frank did it his way. Rest well beloved…flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. A private memorial is pending.

Frank Austin Kelley

October 13, 1953 - August 24, 2022