Frank L. Decker passed away Wednesday, December 9th, 2015. He passed suddenly, with all his faculties intact, and able to do for himself and others as he had done his entire life. This was a blessing for this strong, independent man.
Frank was born September 24th, 1931 in Topeka, KS to Thompson Earl and Reba (Oden) Decker. He graduated from Highland Park High School, and immediately went to work full time for his father who had been involved in the oil business since 1928.. He'd worked driving trucks and working for his dad since the age of 12. Franks' happiest moments at work, and to a degree, in life were being behind the wheel of a truck. He loved rolling through the countryside, serving his customers, sharing a smile or a joke, and taking pride in every moment. Even when his father lost the business during the energy crisis in 1972, Frank drove a truck for Kansas Sand. Less than 2 months later, Frank restarted Decker Oil, delivering fuel to farms and businesses surrounding Topeka. He built this one man operation into a successful independent oil distributorship, but never stopped thinking of it as his personal responsibility. His word was his stock in trade. His customers knew this and respected him for his integrity and honesty.
Outside of work, Frank loved being behind the wheel of his own truck, pulling his fifth wheel trailer down the road to a campout with the Wagonears camp club, or across the country with just his wife, for the sheer joy of it.
Frank gave of himself to others his entire life. He never wanted credit, and would deny any praise, always saying it was no big deal. The world would be richer if more people lived their lives the way Frank Decker lived his, and those of us who knew him are poorer for his loss, but richer for what he left with all of us. Love.
Frank was preceded in death by his mother and father, and leaves behind his wife, Marilynn R. Decker. He was father to 4 sons and 2 daughters, 2 by birth and 4 by marriage, but father to them all. He also leaves behind his sister and many grandchildren and great grandchildren, all with aching hearts at his loss.
Due to health concerns, the family asks that no flowers be sent and no perfume or cologne be worn.
A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Monday, December 14th at Dove Cremation & Funeral Service. A visitation for family and friends will be held one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Rescue Mission, P.O. Box 8350 Topeka, KS 66608-0350.