A native of Dallas, Robert was born to Lucille and David Antoine (D.A.) Frank on May 13, 1948. He attended Hyer Elementary School, Highland Park Junior High and Lake Highlands High School. He received a bachelor of Science degree in English and Government from the University of North Texas. While in college, he was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity where he was selected as chapter secretary and rush chairman. His leadership skills led him to serve in the Student Senate and he was elected to Inter-Fraternity Council President of the University of North Texas. He was also a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity.
After college, Robert worked in the real estate business before joining L. J. Melody & Company, a privately held commercial mortgage company in 1977. His responsibilities included management of the Dallas and North Texas regions. He became a partner in 1981 and remained at the company after its acquisition by CBRE until his death.
Robert’s greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He was devoted to his wife, Diane, and his children, Stacey, Scott, Clayton and Margaret. But the light of his life were his grandchildren, Ryan, Caden, Kellan, Coby and Zoe He loved watching them play sports, perform in musical concerts and dance recitals. Poppy, as they called him, always greeted them with open arms and was just fun to be with.
From childhood and throughout his life, service to others
was important to Robert. During his teenage years, he volunteered as a counselor at Camp Grady Spruce and while in college spent countless hours volunteering as a soccer coach working with residents of the Denton State School. Robert said his greatest satisfaction came from teaching these children how to tie their shoes and button their shirts.
As an adult, he volunteered for numerous causes. As a result of being diagnosed with Leukemia, Robert became involved with the Leukemia Society of America, North Texas Chapter, where he was President of the board. With his wife, Diane, he chaired several fundraising events.
Robert was a dedicated member of the Salesmanship Club of Dallas for the past 21 years. He regularly volunteered at the Byron Nelson golf Tournament, serving in many capacities. He was committed to helping the children and families of the Club’s Momentous School and Institute and through his involvement made life long friendships.
There are some people who others are drawn to and Robert was one of those. Whether he was spending time in the Colorado mountains, golfing skiing or traveling, Robert made friends wherever he went. He was a loyal friend in return and was always willing to offer advice or help someone in need.
A committed Christian, Robert’s involvement with his church, Lovers Lane United Methodist, was also very important to him. He served the church in many capacities and it was his faith that gave him strength throughout his life. He faced several serious health challenges with courage and a positive attitude. Regardless of how he was feeling, he never complained. He had a contagious enthusiasm for life and lived each day to the fullest as he knew every day was a gift.
Robert was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Diane Folsom Frank; children, Scott Frank, Stacey Frank Conover (Scott), Clayton Miller (Sarah), and Margaret Miller; his grandchildren Ryan Miller, Caden and Kellan Conover, Coby and Zoe Miller. He leaves behind his brothers, David Frank (Cindy) and Jim Frank (Madeline); sister-in-law, Debbie Jarma (Don) and brother-in-law, Steve Folsom (Sharon). He is also survived by the mother of his children, Tomi Lue Beck.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on December 11, 2019 at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church, 9200 Inwood Road with the Reverend Stan Copeland officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salesmanship Club of Dallas, 106 East 10th Street, Suite 200, Dallas, Texas 75203; Lovers Lane United Methodist Church, or the charity of your choice.
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