Frank Mason, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and an iconic figure in the Chehalis community, passed away peacefully on Aug. 15, 2024, at the age of 83. Born on March 11, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, Frank’s life was a testament to hard work, ingenuity, and a deep love for family and community. During his high school years, Frank met the love of his life, Barbara Back, at a local sock hop. Their love story began with Frank transferring to Adna High School to be closer to her, and it culminated in a marriage that would last 62 years. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Back Mason, their children Kristine Redford and Todd Mason, and his cherished grandchildren Karin, Ingrid, and Peter Redford and Brooke, Grant, and Trent Mason and beloved dog, Havana.
Frank’s life story is one of resilience and dedication. Raised by his grandparents in Chehalis after his parents divorced when he was just six months old, Frank learned early on the values of perseverance and hard work. His childhood was shaped by the frugality and work ethic of his grandparents, and these principles would guide him throughout his life. Whether delivering newspapers, collecting scrap metal, or picking blackberries to earn a little extra money, Frank was always industrious, a trait that carried him into a successful career in construction and beyond.
A true craftsman, Frank founded Mason Construction Company in 1971 after working for his uncle, Fred Moore, and a local contractor, Jerry Langford. His work not only shaped the landscape of Chehalis but also left an indelible mark on the community. His first major project, remodeling the St. Helens Hotel in Chehalis—where he had once worked as a bellhop in high school—marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to preserving the architectural heritage of his community.
Over the years, Frank built numerous custom homes, commercial buildings, and renovated many rental units and historical structures in downtown Chehalis, including Marketplace Square which provided spaces for many small businesses to flourish in the downtown area. Among his most notable projects was the restoration of the 1889 Hotel Washington, which had suffered significant fire damage. The building was slated for demolition, but Frank saw potential where others saw ruin. His meticulous restoration work earned him the Washington State Historic Preservation Award and turned the hotel into a cherished event and retail space, breathing new life into the heart of Chehalis.
Beyond his construction achievements, Frank’s deep-seated passion for vintage motorcycles added another layer to his legacy. Frank’s passion for vintage motorcycles was more than just a hobby; it was a lifelong love affair with the history and mechanics of early American motorbikes. His museum, which specializes in pre-1916 motorcycles, is a treasure trove of meticulously restored bikes that tell the story of America’s early romance with the open road. Visitors to the museum often find themselves transported back in time, surrounded by the sights and stories of a bygone era, all lovingly curated by Frank.
In addition to his professional and personal achievements, Frank was deeply committed to his community. He served on numerous boards, including the Airport Board, Sisters of Providence St. Helens Hospital Board, Habitat for Humanity, and as a Port of Chehalis Commissioner. Frank played a vital role in shaping the region’s infrastructure and economy.
Despite his many accomplishments, Frank remained humble and approachable, always ready with a story, a bit of practical wisdom, or a warm smile. He was a down-home philosopher, a humorist, and a true gentleman who never forgot his roots. His legacy lives on in the buildings he constructed, the motorcycles he restored, and the countless lives he touched through his work and community service.
Frank Mason’s life was one well-lived, full of love, hard work, and dedication to family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide those he leaves behind.
