Frank A. Stanush

A product of the Great Depression, Frank was a hard-driven, self-made businessman who thrived on the challenge of new projects but also had a love of nature and beauty, a fierce sense of family, and a deep Catholic faith.

"He was a man of his word,' says his daughter Susan. His natural grit was first put to the test at age 15 when his father passed away and half the cattle on their small family ranch died. At times, he worked 70 hours a week for 10 cents an hour. Although an intensely private person, who neither boasted nor complained, Frank did everything—from cattle roundups to art to business—with flair and flourish.

His air-brush paintings of Hollywood movie stars graced theaters such as the Majestic and Empire; his drawings are in classic Texana books; his portraits of generals hang in the State Capitol in Austin. His business ventures were many and varied; with Hal "Boss" Peterson as mentor, he was involved in the launching of Beverly Studios and other photography businesses and the development of Castle Hills leaving as many trees standing as possible.

Later, Frank developed other subdivisions; acquired Travis Wholesale Florists as a family business with son Pat as manager; and, with Melvin "Dutch" Ehlers, built San Antonio's first self-storage units.

One of his greatest joys was the family's Hill Country ranch, where he was—not surprisingly—continually planting new trees. He was honored with conservation awards, of which he was proud. He was also proud to be a Texas Cavalier for 55 years.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Dorothy, and his sister Marie.

He is survived by son, Pat and wife, Belinda; daughters, Carol and husband, Carl Gagliardi and Susan; grandchildren, Ashley and husband, Brad Jackson, Chris and Chad Gagliardi; great-granddaughter, Morgan; brother Claude and wife, Barbara; and extended family.