December 30, 1937 – May 11, 2013
May 11, 2013
It is with a very heavy heart that today we learned that long time NHRA Division 6 racer and friend to all that knew him, Frank Nelson, passed away after a long courageous battle with cancer.
My experiences with Frank started when we both raced in Modified Production many years ago. He was a remarkable man with a firm handshake one can never forget as his large, strong hand swallowed yours, a big smile on his face, and always willing to give you the shirt off his back to get you back on the track.
Frank, you and Ruth touched many racers here in the Northwest throughout the years and losing you is truly a loss for our racing community. It was an honor to have you as a friend for so many years and you were a personal inspiration. You shaped drag racing here in the Northwest over many decades and were a very positive influence within Division 6. You will be missed but certainly not forgotten.
Our hearts go out to his beloved wife, Ruth, and his son Frank Nelson, Jr. who is our current Division 6 Director and the entire Nelson family.
God bless you Frank, and TAPS for a fellow military veteran who served our country in the Air Force and who had a burning passion and true love for drag racing and getting the most performance from your cars. Thanks for the wonderful memories. Rest In Peace my friend…
Respectfully,
Roger Young – 6035
Frank’s Obituary/Guest Book – Tacoma News Tribune – May 22, 2013
50 years later, Auburn driver Frank Nelson is still on track – Auburn Reporter – July 8, 2010
Frank Nelson – Lucas Oil Canada West Doorslammers
Mod Squad – Edwards & Young – April 3, 2013
Pictures courtesy of Lucas Oil Canada West Doorslammers & Rich Carlson
Frank’s Celebration of Life:
UPDATE: Per my fathers request NO funeral service…..We will have a “Celebration of Life” at the Auburn Eagles 702 M Street SE. Auburn, WA
June 8th, 2013 11-2 the Longhorn B-BQ which was long time sponsor will supply food please bring a desert for all to share and some good “Frank” Stories as we all know you have them. – Frank Nelson, Jr.
Courtesy of Carl Thorsett
Parade pass in honor of Frank Nelson, Sr. at Pacific Raceways Northwest Dragster Challenge on May 18th 2013 – Paul Young photo
He is a true icon here in the NW and just know that he will be watching us go down the 1320 for the win. I will miss him but he will never be forgotten.
Very nice words , Roger. My race days started with Frank on the early Camaro. Great memories.
Tory Lea
S/C 6102
The last time I got to speak with Frank was at the Division 6 ET Finals at Pacific last summer, 2012.
Frank was in the stands behind the starting line and flagged me down as I was walking back in the old Pro lanes after Chris made a hit. Frank was his cheerful self and was very optimistic about his treatments and was out enjoying the racing in the sunshine. I’ll cherish that moment forever!
God Speed my friend, race with the Angels!
Frank helped me when I first started drag racing in the 70’s with the Gunny’s Toy and then with the Spirit Of 69. He was a loyal friend and a mentor. Rest in Peace Frank……..
Mark Daugherty
SgtMajor USMC Retired
Has anyone heard when Frank’s funeral will be?
Mark, haven’t heard anything yet from Frank Nelson, Jr.
Will post when I have some specifics.
Update May 16, 2013:
Just posted details in from Frank Nelson,Jr. this morning above!
Frank and I met 40 years at Mission Raceways. he became my American brother. Love all the Nelson family, best people I know! lots of time at the ol’ shop and events! Gonna miss you , Bro !
The only time I got the best of Frank in our old Modified Production days was at SIR during a divisional qualifying round. Frank lost the harmonic balancer on his car (before we drilled the snouts) which came up shearing the water pump and going up through the hood.
Race with the Angels my friend, see you at the big finish line!
Dear Ruth
I am very sorry to hear about Franks passing and sorry I wasn’t there for a little support.
I know Frank will be missed a lot and I’m glad I had the chance to know him.
Don Fortier
I met Frank in the early 80’s at a points meet when I had some trouble with valve spring.Frank took me to his shop where he helped me change them.
That was the start of a long friendship (Frank was a friend to many).
Thanks Frank for being my friend.
Dan Hunt