Frank Larkin Kelp

Frank Larkin Kelp, 87, of White Deer, passed away suddenly on December 4, 2016 in Amarillo. Memorial graveside services will be 2:00 PM Friday, December 9, 2016, at White Deer Cemetery with Rev. Dr. Jerry R. Lane, pastor of Community Crossroads Church of White Deer, officiating. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors of Pampa. Mr. Kelp was born May 19, 1929 in Stratford to John V. and Zona C. Kelp. He was working early in life to help support his family when his father passed away in 1943. He began loading soft drink trucks in the days when the wooden crates and heavy filled bottles were the norm. From there, he went to work on the pipeline and eventually, through perseverance and hard work, became a partner in a pipeline construction company. He married June C. Myatt on September 2, 1949. In 1965, he and June started their own company with a pickup, truck, backhoe, a refurbished ditching machine, and a little child labor. K & K Incorporated has continually grown, and for some time, has been one of the major employers in the Texas Panhandle. June preceded him in death on December 18, 1997. Frank had always supported the community in which he lived and helped so many people in numerous ways. White Deer is a much better place because of his efforts. He definitely knew how to get things done. Frank enjoyed life and his passion was to go to Las Vegas, and already had his next trip planned. He seemed to know just about everyone and always had a story to share. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Joe Kelp; and two sisters, Anita and Oleta. Survivors include three children, Kathy Dowd and husband Jim of Panhandle, Kent Kelp and wife Vicki of White Deer, and Kavin Kelp and wife Lynne of Austin; five grandchildren, Brad Haiduk and wife Janie, Jeff Haiduk, Kelly Hartman and husband Kory, Kirk Kelp and wife Ashley, all of White Deer, and Maya Kelp of Austin; twelve great grandchildren whom he loved; and a brother, Jack Kelp and wife Helen of Bakersfield, California. After a life with difficult beginnings, Frank enjoyed the fruits of his labors. He always gave more than he took, making the world a better place. May he rest in peace. Memorials may be made to Community Crossroads Church of White Deer, PO Box 638, White Deer, Texas 79097; or White Deer EMS, PO Box 98, White Deer, Texas 79097.