Jorge Franz Jauneaud

Jorge Franz Jauneaud, born February 21, 1942, passed away on January 21, 2026, at the age of 83.

Born near Santiago, Chile, to Carlos Franz Otaiza and Adriana Jauneaud, Jorge spent his childhood there before graduating from university in Santiago. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, he went on to work on international projects, including early observatory initiatives by NASA in Chile and later in international diplomacy and business relations with the U.S. Embassy in Santiago, Chile and Caracas, Venezuela.

In 1964, Jorge married the love of his life, Irma Angelica Franz. They shared 61 years together, traveling to more than 50 countries and building a life defined by curiosity, laughter, and love.

Jorge and Irma raised two sons, Jorge Charles Franz and Daniel Adrian Franz, whom he adored and inspired with his love of travel, reading, astronomy, and strong values of kindness and hard work.

In 1981, the family moved to Houston, Texas, where Jorge built a successful career in the stone and fabricated stone industry, most notably expanding Silestone into 43 countries. His career later took the family to Spain for nearly 15 years, a country he deeply loved.

After returning to Houston in 2008, Jorge treasured time with his family, especially his grandson, Ethan Franz, with whom he shared a special bond. He also enjoyed working alongside his sons later in his career.

Jorge was known for his zest for life, generosity, humor, and unforgettable laugh. Above all, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who treated everyone with respect and lived life with joy and adventure.