Frank Joseph Piecara

Born on October 8, 1929, in Chester, Pennsylvania, Frank was the son of Sigmund Piecara and Catherine Lucko Piecara, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Roberta Haley Piecara and his son, Steve Piecara.

Frank was known for determination, hard work, generosity, and devotion to those he loved. He was the first member of his family to graduate from high school, an accomplishment celebrated by his entire family and which remained a source of pride throughout his life. Following graduation, he began working at General Electric, where he developed an early passion for engineering.

During the Korean War era, when the military draft was in effect, Frank enlisted in the United States Navy. He served in an important and challenging role, flying aboard Navy aircraft that penetrated the heart of hurricanes to measure their intensity and gather weather data. It was work that required courage, skill, and a willingness to venture where few others would go.

After completing his military service, Frank married the love of his life, Roberta Haley, and settled in Memphis, Tennessee. There he began a distinguished career with Monarch Engineering, drafting development plans for projects throughout the Memphis area. Frank joked that he spent his life drawing "lines and circles," but those lines and circles became neighborhoods, businesses, roads, and communities that helped shape the region.

His talents, vision, and work ethic led him into project management and eventually company ownership. Over the years, his business interests expanded into nearly every phase of construction and development. He was involved with Liberty Concrete and B&P Construction Company, which built subdivisions, apartment complexes, and underground television cable systems throughout the South.

Despite his success, Frank never forgot the value of giving people an opportunity. He hired individuals who struggled to find work and believed everyone deserved a chance to earn a living and learn a skill. He judged people not by their past but by their willingness to work and contribute. His generosity extended beyond the workplace. When his wife suffered a debilitating stroke, Frank devoted the next twelve years of his life to caring for her. He became her nurse, advocate, and constant companion, serving her with extraordinary love and commitment until her passing in 2016. In one example of his compassion, he provided shelter for a homeless man on his property in exchange for helping care for Roberta during those difficult years.

Frank was a builder in every sense of the word. He built companies, communities, opportunities, and lasting relationships. He remained curious, creative, and engaged throughout his life and continued drawing "lines and circles"—right up until the end.

He is survived by his daughters, Diane and Karen; his grandchildren, Marsha, Patrick, Haley, Julia, Leif, Duncan, and Morgaine; and his great-grandchildren, Heston, Clay, and Cam. His legacy also lives on through the countless people whose lives he touched through his kindness, mentorship, generosity, and example.

Frank's life was a testament to perseverance, service, faithfulness, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, compassion, and devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A Prayer Service will be held on July 6, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by a Funeral mass from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, both at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, 9500 Neenah Ave, Austin, TX.

Military Honors will be rendered Friday, July 10 beginning at nine o'clock in the morning at West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery.