Frank Neiss, 74 of Helena MT passed away in his home on November 26, 2021, after a 15-day battle with Lung cancer.
He was born in Billings MT to Helen and Wilmer Neiss on September 1, 1947.
Frank grew up in Billings MT and went to school at Central Catholic he went on to become a skilled electrician, welder, and an outstanding cattle rancher and farmer. He was a member of IBEW Local 532 for 50 years and made lifelong friends who held him in high regard and called him “Frankie” He enjoyed after work red beers at Tiny’s once his kids were grown. The IBEW brotherhood was an important part of his rich life.
Frank was married to the love of his life Lori Neiss for 45 years, together they raised their children and ran a successful farm and ranch for the better part of 3 decades.
Frank was known to many as “Frankie, Poppa Frank and Mo”
He was an avid cribbage player and enjoyed Friday night Poker at Nickles in Helena.
He never missed an opportunity to get down on the floor and play with his kids and grandkids. He was a true kid at heart. He was smart, funny, and kind. A true jokester. He opened his home and heart to all. He showed us all what it meant to be an entrepreneur, to never give up and always push ahead. He instilled a very strong work ethic in all of us. His love was pure and never ending. His kids were never afraid to fall because he would catch them, no mistake was too big for his unfailing love and forgiveness.
He was a dad to many and friend to all. Anyone lucky enough to know Frank was in the presence of God’s love. Your secrets and heart were safe, your fears were softened, and your future was encouraging.
He made a way for all he knew, he was a social butterfly, always answered his cell, even though he acted annoyed he was thrilled so many people called him throughout the day.
He enjoyed his coffee with cream and sugar, he liked his eggs over easy, his bacon crisp and his smokes close by. He was a man of routine, courage, and strength. A true Montana Cowboy.
He is survived by his wife Lori Neiss, Children, Patrick Neiss, Camille Neiss Fischer, Mikel Neiss, Amber Neiss Ion, Megan Neiss. His Brother Rick Neiss, Sisters Debbie and Peggy Neiss. His Grandchildren, Patrick, Riley, and Braydon Neiss, Forrest and Haven Fischer, McKenzie Neiss, Luca, and Logan Ion.
The family is asking that in lieu of flowers to donate to the ASPCA in Franks name. He never met an animal he didn’t like, well except coyotes. He didn’t like them but most other 4-legged furry friends he did.
Services are scheduled for Spring in Billings MT.
Visitation will be held at Retz Funeral Home in Helena Montana on Monday November 29th.
Service Schedule
Viewing
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday November 29, 2021
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena, MT 59601
Service Schedule
Viewing
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday November 29, 2021
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena, MT 59601
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Kathy Klaman says
Lori,
So sorry to hear about Frank. I enjoyed working with Frank and you over the years. Frank was always easy to talk to and I enjoyed talking with him. I really missed him when you guys moved to Helena. You take care and my prayers are with you.
Bruce jacobson says
Lori. I am sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and I am not very good at this.
Karen says
Lori, I was sad to hear of Frank’s passing. Frank was always the guy at the Poker game
that came up and said hi. He was just so easy to talk with and I will miss him. The last
time he called we were comparing our knee surgery since they were just two weeks apart.
I will remember Frankie always. Please take care of yourself.
Love you, Karen
Hayes Jim says
Lori, we will miss Franks stories, jokes, your poke face at the table and the visits after a great pheasant hunt! Rest In Peace my friend. We love you, Jim and Sue
Don and Patty Herzog says
Lori and family our condolences to all. My last visit with Frank was on Tuesday so we were very surprised to hear he passed on Friday. Say hello to all the Brothers on the Big Job……..until we meet again
Dick Porter says
Frank sure made his legacy bright and I’m glad I knew him.
RIP. Dick Porter
Fred H. and Vera-Beth Johnson says
Dear Lori, Rick and family,
Fred and I are deeply sorry to learn of Frank’s passing. Fred has many fond memories of him and the Neiss family, especially during the growing up years in Shepherd.
The first time I met Frank was when he was still in high school. Later, he would come out to our ranch we had in the Bull Mountains to cut fire wood and hunt. Usually, Frank would come with his brother Rick, who has been Fred’s best friend since grade school. We enjoyed those times, especially the visits. Talking about the experiences we shared during our younger and older years would cause much laughter. Even though we will miss him, our friendship will last forever. We send our love, Fred and Vera Johnson, Shepherd, MT