Frank Kim Elementary

Frank Kim was born on September 1, 1925; his father was a Korean immigrant and his mother of Hispanic ancestors. His early childhood years were spent in Bingham, Utah. In 1929, the Kim family sojourned to Las Vegas and settled in this small desert community where their son would make an indelible mark on the history of this region.

The Kim family's early years in Las Vegas saw Frank working on his father's 20-acre vegetable farm at the city limits. Today we know this area as Bonanza Road and Highland Boulevard. During these years Frank faced human and financial obstacles to gain an education. He overcame prejudice by displaying a presence of dignity directed toward everyone he met. In 1943, he was graduated from Las Vegas High School, having proven early in his life that hard work and dedication to every task is worth the effort.

Immediately following his graduation from high school Frank enlisted in the United States Navy where he served in two major world conflicts. After leaving the military service, he returned to Las Vegas and pursued several business ventures. In 1950, Frank Kim entered the career field that was suited to his temperament, interest, and skill, he became a member of the Las Vegas Police Department. Thus began a legacy of public service to this community that is unrivaled.

Sheriff John Moran stated, "Frank was probably the most ethical, honest police officer ever, dishonesty always seemed to amaze him, and his kindness has become legendary among the officers of yesterday and even today." No greater testimony could be offered to any civil servant than to have the respect of his peers and those he is charged to serve.

Yet, there was more to this man than his work. He was creative, imaginative and a person with boundless energy and personal interests. Frank Kim was possessed with a gift, he knew how to help others and this extended to those who needed a friend, a counselor, or advisor. This was a man truly dedicated to helping make this a better community for all who came to this desert valley to live. This strength of character, his sense of pride and devotion to others never eclipsed his love for his wife Charlotte, and daughter Diane. Frank demonstrated this family unity and pride in the development of the Golden Spike Ranch. Today this beautifully designed home with its special landscape not only stands as a landmark at Jones Boulevard, but epitomizes the value that Frank placed on those closest to him.

This man will be remembered from his more than 30 years of unselfish service to the law enforcement agency where he worked. There will be those who remember his interest in search and rescue and the beginning of the helicopter support unit. There will be those who remember him as the Watch Commander of the Detective Bureau. None will ever forget that he loved mankind and proved it over and over never asking or expecting any thanks or recognition for his untiring efforts.

Frank Kim died of cancer in 1986 at 61 years.

Judge Carl J. Christensen eulogized Frank and he stated for all of us "Frank's friends range from the most common lowly man to great leaders." Frank could literally, "walk with kings and not lose the common touch."