Frank Barao

Parents: Domingo Jose Barao and Jane Rose (Amaro) Barao

Siblings: Lawrence, Mary "Mamie", Lucille "Lucy", Domingo Jr "Sonny", Emil, Jane "Winnie", Tilda and Paul

Proceded by: his beloved wife of 59 years, Jimmie (Henson) Barao, his parents and all siblings

Survived by: Son - Bobby (wife Sherry) Barao of Las Vegas, Nevada, Daughter Dana Barao of Irving, Texas, Grand-daughter Barbara Swanke and Grand-son Charles (wife Tonya) Cutler as well as great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

He answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army. He served with distinction during World War II and the Korean War. In World War II he was part of the 101st Airborne Division Screaming Eagles.

Post Army life, he found the thrill of the open road and enjoyed a long career as a truck driver. He worked for Central Freight Lines, Army Airforce Exchange Service (AFFES) and McLean Foodservice. Frankie was also an independent owner/operator.

During the 1970s' - 1980's Frankie was a member of the Harker Heights Volunteer Fire Department. He served in many leadership capacities including Fire Chief. He was the last volunteer Chief for the HHFD. During his time with the fire department Frankie was active in the State Firefighters and Fire Marshalls Association, the Bell County Fire Chiefs Association and was a guest instructor at the annual state fire school at Texas A&M University.

Frankie lived in the Harker Heights/Killeen area for over 70 years. He never met a stranger. He had many friends and enjoyed meeting up and telling old stories over a cup of strong, hot coffee. Some of his best stories were about his time in the Army, the time he was selected to 'come on down' to bidders row on the Price is Right, all of the places he's been over the years including time spent in Las Vegas where he enjoyed seeing many shows including his favorite comedian Carrot Top.

Frankie loved watching old westerns and NFL football on tv - especially his team, the Dallas Cowboys. He dearly loved his pets, his friends and his family.

He will be deeply missed and remembered forever.

Visitation will be held at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, 1615 South Fort Hood Road, Killeen, TX 765421654, US, on April 13, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.  

A Funeral Service will take place at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, 1615 South Fort Hood Road, Killeen, TX 765421654, US, on April 14, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.  

A Committal Service will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, 2124 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706, US, on April 14, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm.