BELLEVUE, Neb. (KMTV) — Across the city of Bellevue, people are pausing to remember Frank Kumor, a man who worked to make the community a better place since his arrival in 1975.
Kumor passed away on Friday after contracting COVID-19.
After serving in the Air Force, Kumor moved his family to Bellevue, where he began working at Erwin’s Jewelry. Over the years, Kumor inherited the shop, and made an effort to connect with those who came through its doors.
“As I grew up, no matter where I’ve worked in the Omaha metropolitan area, whenever someone made the connection that I was Frank Kumor’s son, they would say ‘Oh I was just in your Dad’s store,'" said Brent Kumor, one of Frank's sons.
At the small corner jewelry store in Olde Towne Bellevue, many people got to know Frank Kumor, but his legacy in the community was much more far reaching.
Kumor took part in many civic organizations like the Chamber of Commerce and Olde Towne Task Force. He also served on the Bellevue Public Schools Board of Education for 18 years, working hands-on with educators to improve the lives of children.
“There’s not an aspect of this district or this community that Frank wasn’t involved in and didn’t support," said superintendent Jeff Rippe.
Kumor also acted as a liaison between Offutt Air Force Base and the community, making sure to care for military families who came to town.
"His kindness has had a huge impact on the men and women of the 55th Wing," said Lt. Chad Backes, Squadrant Commander for the 343rd Reconnaissance Squadron at Offutt. "He's been a co-commander for the 343rd Reconnaissance Squadron for 15 years, so his generosity has supported hundreds of airmen and most importantly their families."
“One of our squadron spouses mentioned that the world needs more Frank Kumors, and I think we can all agree that that’s a factual statement," said Sarah Backes, the lieutenant's wife.
The words of admiration go on and on, something Kumor’s family said he would humbly say wasn’t necessary.
“I knew that he had done some good stuff, and people appreciated him, but I am just floored," said Rebecca Zurker, Frank's daughter. "And its so humbling the huge outpouring of love and concern and the nice comments."
There will be a funeral procession Tuesday around 10:45 a.m. following a service that will be available via livestreamat 10.
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