Frank M. Pruett

Frank M. Pruett passed away Saturday, December 18th, 2010 at his home. Frank’s inspiring devotion and loyalty to his family, friends and faith had a profound effect on the Kansas City community for his 87 years of life, and will continue to, as his generous and impressive legacy will live on in all who knew him. Without fanfare he gently and unassumingly dedicated his life to Catholicism and charitable ways. His friendships were one his greatest treasures, many being from his grade school and high school days. Their numerous trips, infinite rounds of golf, celebrations and simple gatherings spanning over his life brought such great joy. His family was the center of his world. A devoted father, Frank taught and guided with his actions and words. He was instrumental in his three son’s lives and business adventures, along with his son-in-law whom he considered a son. His daughter Susan, his “little girl”, was the light of his life. He had great pride and adoration for his eleven grandchildren. His greatest love was his wife of 60 years, whom he dearly missed for the last two years and now joins again.

Frank was born November 25, 1923 the son of Mary Agnes and Joseph C. Pruett. He attended grade school at Our Lady of Good Council and Rockhurst High School. His career began with ownership of Pruett General Agency until1960 before becoming the President of North American Insurance Agency a subsidiary of North American Savings Association. In 1972 he was elected President of NorAm Service Corporation. He also co-founded Premium Financing Specialists, PFS, with Tom Charbonneau and served on its Board until his death. In 1984 he was elected President of North American Savings Association and a member of the Board of Directors and served until his retirement in 1990. During these years he was a member of the US League of Savings Institutions and served as Chairman of the Insurance Committee. He served a number of years as a lobbyist on the state and national level. Frank, along with his eldest son Tom, co-founded Pruett Medical Ltd.

Frank served as Chairman of the St. Joseph Hospital Health Center Foundation and co-founded the Alex George Hospital Golf Tournament. He also co-founded of the Bishop Boland Golf Tournament. He was dedicated to helping St. Therese Little Flower Parish, every year providing Christmas dinner to underprivileged families. He was an active member of St. Thomas More Parish and a long time member of Blue Hills Country Club.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy, his parents, brother, Joseph C. Pruett Jr. and many cherished friends. Those left to lovingly remember him are: sons, Tom Pruett, wife Caroline and their two daughters Katie and Molly; Terry Pruett, Pam Collins and his son Ben; Dan Pruett, wife Elizabeth and their four children, Alli, Danny, Mary Kate and Megan; his daughter Susan Hoefer, husband Mike and their four sons Matthew, wife Gwen, Stephen, Scott and John; his beloved sister and brother in-law Mary Agnes and Nate Accardo. He also leaves many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to give heartfelt thanks to all of his caregivers. To Vivian and Namona we offer the sincerest appreciation for the exquisite care, respect and love you gave to Frank and the family. We will forever be grateful.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for memorial contributions to be made to St. Therese Little Flower Food Pantry, 5814 Euclid, Kansas City. MO 64130. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 22, from 9:30 to 11:00 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St .Thomas More Church, 11822 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO. Internment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Kansas City, MO.