Frank Kelemete, as he was commonly known, was born Isitolo Fakaanga Kelemete on June 3, 1947 in Lapaha of the Tonga Islands to Siaosi Mafi Kelemete of Lapaha and Silia Vaka (Tavake) Kelemete of Fatumu.  He attended St. Paul Catholic School from grade 1 through 8 and then went to Apifoou College for 2 years.

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.  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, Kansas to live with his nephew, namesake, and adopted son, Little Frank Kalemete.  This is where he passed away on March 3, 2022 at the age of 74.

Frank is 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 of Topeka, Kansas; nephew, Isitolo Fakaanga "Little Frank" Kelemete and his wife, Randi of Harper; brothers, Eddie Kelemete and his wife, Akanete of Redwood City, California and Kiveni Siale of New Zealand; sisters, Sisi Siale and Telisi Kavaefiafi, both of Tonga; and grandchildren: Lawson Aguilar, Jax Kelemete, Eleanor Kelemete, and Hazel Kelemete; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Friends may view and register from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 10, 2022.  Shortly before 1:00 p.m., there will be a blessing before everyone departs and processes to the Harper Cemetery for a Graveside Service with Father Bob Pinninti officiating.

Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society and can be sent in care of the funeral home.  Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W 14th St ~ Harper, Kansas  67058