Frank L. Colson

Died peacefully at home on December 30, 2012, at the age of 89. He was born in Burnside, Mississippi on November 28, 1923 to Clyde and Clarice Colson. Frank spent most of his young life in Florida. He graduated and played football for the St. Cloud High School Bull Dogs of Kissimmee, Florida. He joined the Army Air Corps in 1943. While stationed in Kingman, Arizona he met Mary C. Shepard of Carpinteria, also serving as a WAC in the Army Air Corps. They wed in 1945 and made their home in Carpinteria. He worked for Van Etta's Lincoln Mercury, a former dealership in Santa Barbara. In 1949 he decided to open his own business and started Colson's Garage. Frank was a pioneer in the towing business and was affiliated with the Auto Club of Southern California for over 45 years. He was well known in the community to lend a helping hand when needed. Frank Jr. continues to own and operate the family business. Back in the early fifties, the jalopy races started at what was called "The Thunderbowl". Frank ran the Pit Gate and would be there with his truck to clear the track of less fortunate drivers that crashed their jalopies. Frank also built several jalopies which he would enter. Lee Hammock, Wild Bill Cherry and Parnelli Jones were among Frank's drivers who sharpened their skills on that dirt track so long ago. He was also a member of the Carpinteria Lion's Club and had a passion for ocean fishing. Frank was predeceased by his wife Mary Shepard Colson in 1974. He is survived by his children Thomas S. Colson (Gwyn) of Stockton, CA. James E. Colson (Mary Ann), Clare Colson Westfall (Bob) and Frank Colson, Jr. all of Carpinteria along with 6 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. He is survived by his current wife of 33 years, Regina B. Colson and stepson Jim High (Jean) of Ventura. We will miss you dearly, Dad In lieu of flowers a contribution in memory of Frank may be made to Hospice of Santa Barbara. A memorial will be held at the Carpinteria Cemetery, January 26, 2013 at 11:00 am for family and friends.