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Frank F. Gudat, 85, passed away on May 30, 2026, after a courageous four-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on November 10, 1940, in San Antonio, Texas, Frank was the son of Gilbert J. and Emma L. Gudat. He graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1958, where he participated in ROTC and the ROTC Rifle Team. He continued his education at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, becoming Commander of the Student Corps and earning a degree in Accounting in 1962. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. Frank served his country with distinction for twenty years. His military career took him around the world, including assignments in Germany, Korea, and two tours in Vietnam. He was awarded numerous decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Vietnam. Stateside assignments included California, Virginia, Louisiana, and Texas. While stationed at Fort Sam Houston, he was recognized for outstanding performance as a procurement staff officer supporting Health Services Command logistics operations. He retired from the Army in 1982 with the rank of Major. During the Vietnam War, Frank helped develop a more efficient system for delivering blood supplies to combat units on the front lines. His innovation reduced delivery times by four days, helping ensure that critically wounded service members received lifesaving blood products more quickly. Never one to stop learning, Frank earned his Certified Public Accountant designation while still serving in the military. Following his retirement from the Army, he enjoyed a successful career in both public and private accounting. While attending high school, Frank met the love of his life, Betty L. Daniel. Their friendship blossomed into a seven-year courtship, and they were married in 1963. Together they built a loving family and shared more than sixty years of marriage. A lifelong Catholic, Frank’s faith served as a steady foundation throughout his life. His commitment to God, family, and country guided his decisions and shaped the example he set for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Above all else, Frank was devoted to his family. As a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, his quiet strength, steady presence, and sense of duty shaped the lives of those who knew him. He took great pride in watching his family grow and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. Frank enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life. He loved fishing along the Texas coast, taking camping trips with his family, and was an enthusiastic amateur radio operator who mastered Morse code. Whether teaching a practical skill, sharing stories, or simply enjoying time together, he created memories that will be cherished for generations. Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Betty; his daughters, Sandra Gudat-Benke, Mary K. Hine, and Linda A. Cordova; his grandchildren Brian Hine, David Hine, Stephen Hine, Russell Hine, Emily Hine, Marissa Benke, Amanda Benke, Alec Benke, and Trent Cordova; and his great-grandchildren, Jamison Hine and Jonathan Hine. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Emma Gudat. Frank belonged to the generation that believed duty was not something to be discussed, but something to be lived. Whether serving his country, caring for his family, or supporting those around him, he approached every responsibility with quiet determination and unwavering commitment. He leaves behind a legacy of service, sacrifice, faith, and love that will continue to inspire his family for generations to come. Funeral Services Rosary: 6 PM on June 10, 2026 (5 pm Visitation) Mission Park Funeral Chapels, 3401 Cherry Ridge Dr., San Antonio, TX 78230 Funeral Mass: 9:30 AM on June 11, 2026 St. George Maronite Catholic Church 6070 Babcock Rd San Antonio, TX 78240 Interment: St. Joseph Cemetery 218 FM-536 Pleasanton, TX 78064 (Exit 17 off I-37) Reception after Interment: St. Luke’s Parish Hall 3930 FM-536 Pleasanton, TX 78064

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Frank F. Gudat

November 10, 1940 - May 30, 2026