Frank Thomas Vilos

 In Loving Memory of Frank Thomas Vilos

 October 9, 1937 – September 3, 2025

Frank Thomas Vilos, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on

September 3, 2025, at the age of 87 in the Dalles, Oregon, leaving behind a legacy of love and

cherished memories.

 Frank was born on October 9, 1937, in Newcastle, Wyoming, to Chris George Vilos Sr. (Nestani,

Greece) and Elizabeth Marie Shedlock (Dietz, Wyoming) Vilos. Stubborn in the best way, loyal

to his family and friends, and never happier than when there was “real” work to be done. Frank

grew up with ranch grit in his bones— breaking green-broke horses and making sure those

around him were cared for.

Frank had a passion for gardening, with a gift for cultivating just about anything. His garden was

a reflection of his patience and care, and his tomatoes were known to be some of the best

around. Inquisitive by nature and a lifelong learner, Frank was an avid car enthusiast and liked

to turn a wrench. He took satisfaction in knowing everything there was to know about engines

and mechanics. Calm and steady, rarely ruffled, Frank was a forward thinker, always prepared. In

his spare time, Frank also enjoyed fishing and hunting—there wasn’t a spot in Wyoming he

didn’t know.

Frank’s love of food and hard work began in high school, when he worked at a local bakery in

Casper, Wyoming, making sweet rolls that became a best seller. He later used these skills to

make cinnamon rolls and Bismarcks while living in Cooke City, Montana, where they again

became a local favorite. His success in the kitchen followed him throughout life, especially

during his time cooking and helping to run the family-owned restaurant, The Western Cafe in

Bozeman, Montana, a beloved local institution. During this time, Frank also attended Montana

State University-Bozeman studying chemistry for three years and excelling in all his studies.

In the 1960’s, the family moved to Worland, Wyoming, where they owned and operated Scotty’s

Cafe and later relocating down the street, naming it The Ram’s Horn Cafe. Frank also proudly

served his country in the Army National Guard as a radio operator and morse code instructor,

embodying the same steadfast and reliability that defined his life. In October of 1961, he was

placed on active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis and served until his honorable discharge in

August 1962. Shortly after his return, Frank met Ermina Lynn Frost and married on July

28,1968. During their marriage of 11 years, together they had four children: Thereasa Lynn

Vilos, Deianeirra Ermina Kelley, Franceina Marie Brackenbury, and Branden Scott Vilos.

Frank was a natural provider, dedicating his life to work in the culinary arts, oilfield services, and

eventually finding joy in healthcare—supporting others and giving back to his community. After

retiring, he moved to The Dalles, Oregon, to be near his daughter Franceina and son-in-law Fred

Brackenbury, and their two sons, Joshua and Caleb, while staying closely connected to family

and friends in Wyoming.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Chris and Elizabeth Vilos; his siblings, Chris George

Vilos Jr. and Elaine Marie Laird; and his daughter, Thereasa Lynn Vilos—all of whom left a

profound impact on his life.

 He is survived by his children: Deianeirra (Dave) Kelley, Franceina (Fred) Brackenbury, and

Branden Vilos; and his grandchildren: Kevin (Stashia) Humphrey, Zachary Humphrey,

Alexandra Staats, Eric (Luca) Staats, Joshua Brackenbury, Caleb Brackenbury, Thaddeus Vilos,

and Stella Vilos. He is also survived by Loren Laird, husband of his late sister Elaine, and

Glenna Vilos, wife of his late brother Chris, along with many other beloved family members who

will miss him dearly.

Frank’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

 **A celebration of Frank’s life will be held in The Dalles, Oregon on September 27, 2025, at

11:00 a.m. at The Dalles Evangelical Church, 1001 East 12th Street, The Dalles, OR 97058.

 **Funeral Services will be held in Worland, Wyoming on July 3, 2026, 2:00 p.m. at Bryant

Funeral Home, 1320 Big Horn Avenue, Worland, WY 82401, with interment to follow at

Riverview Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 501 15 Mile Road, Worland, WY 82401.

Military honors will be provided by the United States Army National Guard.