Frank was born on January 23, 1933, in Leavenworth, Kansas, to Charles and Katherine (Lietzen) Harlow. He graduated from Mound City High School in 1951, beginning a life defined by quiet strength, steady commitment, and a deep sense of responsibility to those around him.
On August 22, 1952, he married Ruth Stanbrough, and together they built a life rooted in family and resilience. That same year, Frank answered the call to serve his country, beginning a distinguished career in the United States Navy that spanned more than two decades. From 1952 to 1973, he served with honor and dedication, earning numerous awards and commendations, including the Navy Achievement Medal, and retiring as a Senior Chief Petty Officer (E-8).
After his military service, Frank returned home and poured that same work ethic into building a successful bulk fuel delivery business, which he later grew into a full-service gas station. It was another chapter in a life marked not by shortcuts, but by consistency, grit, and pride in doing things the right way.
Frank was a proud member of the American Legion, Hewitt-New Post #248. He found joy in the simple, steady rhythms of life—time spent with family, the laughter and competition of weekly card games with his card group, and the comfort of familiar faces and routines. He wasn’t one for grand gestures, but those who knew him understood something deeper: if you needed him, he was there.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruth; his parents, Charles and Katherine; his grandson, Christopher Otto; and his siblings, Anona White, Lou Austin, Grace Deets, JoAnn Olson, Mary Brandt, and Tom Harlow.
Frank is survived by his children, Linda (Jerry) Thornton, Phil Harlow, and Gary (Leslie) Harlow; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind a very special friend, Barbara Furse.
Frank Harlow’s life was not defined by what he said, but by what he did—by the way he showed up, stood steady, and carried his responsibilities with quiet dignity. He will be deeply missed and remembered with respect, gratitude, and love.
Funeral service will be 10 am Monday, May 4, 2026 at the Schneider Funeral Home, Mound City Chapel. Burial will be in the Woodland Cemetery with full military honors. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm Sunday, May 3, at the Mound City Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to Boy's Town or St Jude Children's Hospital. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.
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