William "Tom" Thomas Frankum

William Thomas Frankum, 73, known to many as “Chief Frankum” or simply “Tom,” passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 14, 2025. When Tom set his mind to something he loved, he pursued it with intensity, dedication, and the desire to be the very best.

Born in Houston, Texas, on October 20, 1951, Tom later made his home in the Clear Lake area. He joined the Houston Fire Department in 1972, where he rose through the ranks to serve as District Chief before retiring in 2009. Beyond his distinguished fire service career, Tom was also a respected fire investigator and expert witness for major insurance companies and law firms.

Tom met the love of his life, Bonnie, in 1997, and they married in January 1999. Together they shared a passion for SCUBA diving and traveling the world. Tom was a Master SCUBA Diver and Instructor, an accomplished sailor, and an active member of Lakewood Yacht Club, where he served proudly as Commodore in 2019. He dreamed of sailing the Caribbean and spent countless hours on the water throughout his life.

Tom’s talents extended to the land as well — he was an expert crawfish boiler, a skilled barbecuer, a talented photographer, and an avid gardener and landscaper. He took great pride in his yard, often planting flowers and tending to his garden with the same care and precision he brought to every part of his life.

A devoted stepfather, Tom loved Jessica Den Herder as his own daughter. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; daughter, Jessica Den Herder; nieces, Amy Frankum, Caitlin Nash, and Cassidy Nash; and nephew, Eric Frankum. He was preceded in death by his mother, his two younger brothers, and his beloved chocolate lab, Scully.

Tom believed in doing your best and doing it right the first time, a standard he held for himself and those closest to him. Beneath his strong and determined exterior was a soft heart, especially for animals.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Houston Fire Department, Lakewood Yacht Club, and the many friends who have shown love and support since his tragic accident in 2021. Tom’s life was one of service, passion, and unwavering commitment — and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, our family asks that donations be made to https://www.leaguecitypetsalive.org/, a cause close to our hearts, where every dollar goes directly toward saving the life of an animal. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at Lakewood Yacht Club at a later date.

Visitation will be held at Forest Park East Funeral Home, located at 21620 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX, 77598, on August 20, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The funeral service will take place at the same venue on August 21, 2025, starting at 10:00 am, followed by the committal at 11:00 am. A reception will be held afterwards from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at Forest Park East Funeral Home.