Tommy Frakes

Tommy Rae Frakes of Eureka, died on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Greenwood County Hospital in Eureka, at the age of 87.

He was born on June 19, 1937, in El Dorado, the son of Lawrence Mason “Buck” and Aline May (Moore) Frakes. Raised in Latham, he attended local schools before the family relocated to Eureka in 1951. Tommy's early career included a stint as a jockey, followed by work in the oil fields.

On September 16, 1954, Tommy was united in marriage to Lauretta Seward in Wichita. They made their home in Eureka. Tommy's career path led him to plumbing, where he worked both independently and for the City of Eureka. He eventually retired as the City's Water Plant Manager. Even after retirement, he continued to operate his own plumbing business, Tom’s Plumbing, well into the mid-2010s.

Tommy is survived by his wife, Lauretta of the home; daughter, Joni Booth of Eureka; three grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and all seven siblings: Donald Charles Frakes, Clarence Lee “Pete” Frakes, Talma Jean Mailen, Wanda Lewis, Treva Dean Frazier, Tavis Lorene Frakes, and Mickey L. Frakes.

Per his wishes, cremation will be effected with a private inurnment to take place at a later date at Greenwood Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Greenwood County Hospital Foundation. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, PO Box 595, Eureka KS 67045, which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online, at koupfunerals.com.