Frank E. Wilkins

Frank E. Wilkins, 101, of Willmar, died Thursday, November 20th at Vista Prairie at Copperleaf. His Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 5th, St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Willmar. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery with military honors. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Homes in Willmar.

Frank Edward Wilkins was born on July 5th, 1924, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Floyd and Gertrude (Rex) Wilkins. Frank moved to Mankato in the late 1920’s, where he spent his childhood, being raised by his paternal grandparents. He graduated from Mankato High School in 1942.

With the onset of World War II, Frank answered the call to serve. As he often said after Pearl Harbor, “it wasn’t about if you were going to join the military, it was what branch you would be enlisting in.” Frank enlisted in the United States Army and served in the European Theatre for 2 years, 3 months, and 9 days. He fought bravely in several engagements, including the memorable and difficult Battle of Anzio. Over the course of his service, he received five military medals, among them the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star, recognizing his courage, sacrifice, and dedication.

After returning home, Frank enrolled at Mankato State on the GI Bill. It was there that he met the love of his life, Phyllis “Putter” Moeller. The two graduated together and were married on June 17, 1950, in Worthington, Minnesota. They made their home in Mankato before moving to Willmar in 1955, where they raised their family and built a lifetime of friendships and community involvement.

Frank enjoyed a long and successful career in banking and finance. Widely known around town as the “Loan Arranger” and affectionately as “Frank from the Bank,” he approached his work with integrity, humor, and true concern for the people he served. He retired happily at age 65.

Community service and involvement were cornerstones in Frank’s life. He was active in the following Willmar organizations: member of the VFW, served as Commander of the American Legion, member of the Masonic Sharon Lodge, Exalted Ruler of the Elks Club, Rotary, lector at Church of St. Mary, Bethesda Foundation, and President of Chamber of Commerce. One of his most meaningful commitments was his work with the Willmar Veteran’s group, speaking to students at Willmar Junior High each year and answering their questions about service, history, and patriotism.

In retirement, Frank and Putter enjoyed traveling, socializing, and spending time with family and friends. Frank had always been a builder at heart, and he carried that passion into his later years—creating model railroads, intricate ship models, woodcarvings, and countless projects that showcased his detail, patience, and creativity.

Frank lived independently in his own home until October 2024 and then moved to Vista Prairie at Copperleaf. Even in his later years, his warmth, humor, and storyteller’s charm remained constant.

Frank will be remembered for his service to his country, his dedication to his community, his craftsmanship, his leadership, and above all, his deep love for his family and his beloved Putter.

Frank is survived by his children, Steven (Catherine) Wilkins of Scottsdale, AZ, Suzanne (Thomas) Hanna of Shenandoah, IA, and Rebecca (John) Tompt of Willmar, MN; son-in-law, Loren Odegard of Sacred Heart, MN; eight grandchildren, Matthew Wilkins, Tiffany Jakubowski, Zachary Gottsacker, Elizabeth Flott, Joseph Hanna, Tommy Hanna, James Tompt, and Melissa Brace; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, Robert; wife, Putter; daughter, Jennifer Odegard; and great-granddaughter, Shelby Johnson.

Memorials preferred to the Honor Guard of the Willmar American Legion Post 167.  

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