Robert “Bob” Elton Frank passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 4th at the age of 93. He was a follower of Christ, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Robert was born to Arthur Frank and Lee Ester Frank in Bernardo, Texas. He grew up in the Houston area, where he and his older brother made every day and adventure.
He married Mildred Ehrilich in1953 and began his college football career at the University of Wyoming. In 1954 Robert was drafted into the U.S.Army during the Korean War. Here he had the opportunity to play football once again. He was stationed overseas in Okinawa Japan.
When Robert’s military service ended, he received a football scholarship to play for Lamar Tech. (Now Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas). He was named an “All Lone Star Conference Center 1957” player. He graduated from Lamar with a BS in Education (Physical Education).
His first coaching job was in Saratoga, Texas. From there he went to West Orange High School in Orange Texas. He helped change the football program with winning teams.
He earned his Masters degree from McNeese University, then went on and received his Administrative Certificate. He became an Assistant Principal at Stark High School, and later moved to Buna, Texas to be the principal at Buna High School.
After retiring they moved back to Orange where their children and grandchildren lived. They were very active in their lives and in their church. Most weekends the families would show up and enjoy Robert’s amazing BBQ chicken. He lived a full life filled with family, faith and friends!
Robert is survived by his brother Larry Frank. His loving wife of seventy-two years, Mildred Ann Frank. Children Felicia Huckaby and husband Skipper of Orange, Patty Cloeren and husband Peter of Orange, Robin Johnston and husband Keith of Lumberton, Bobby Frank and wife Melanie of Austin. Robert and Mildred had eleven grandchildren and twenty-three great-grandchildren.
We would like to thank Lucas Court Assisted Living and Altus Hospice for the wonderful care you gave our Dad.
Visitation will be at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas on Friday Feb. 13, 2026 from 5:00pm – 8:00pm
Graveside service will be at Hillcrest Cemetery in Bridge City ,Texas on Feb. 14, 2026 at 11:00am.