Frank Waelder

Frank Waelder, age 91, of Hannibal, MO, passed away at 10:37 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Luther Manor Nursing Home.

A memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Smith Funeral Home & Chapel, with visitation from 6:00 p.m. until the time of service. A private family burial will follow at Grand View Burial Park on Wednesday.

Frank was born August 4, 1935, in Hannibal, MO, the son of Richard and Clara (Pritchett) Waelder. He graduated from Hannibal High School in 1954.

Frank owned his own auto repair shop for many years before transitioning to Parts Manager at Murphy Motors before he retired. He was a dedicated member of the Hannibal Rural Fire Department, serving as Chief.

Frank enjoyed hunting, fishing, and racing cars in his younger years and was an avid collector. He was a friend to many and always had a story to tell.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents (Richard and Clara Waelder (Prichertt)) and his wife, Jane (Francka) Waelder. He is survived by his children, Debbie Ritter (Sam) of Wentzville, MO, Janie Fitzpatrick (Patrick) of Dallas, TX, Beth Biggs (Ed) of Chesterfield, MO, Zach Waelder (Eva) of Hannibal, MO; significant other, Dora Caldwell; many grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice of charity, in care of Smith Funeral Home & Chapel.

Online condolences may be made to the family on Frank's memorial page at www.smithfuneralhomeandchapel.com