Frank's obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Frank H. Trifilio, born on December 18, 1944, who left us on April 7, 2024. A man of remarkable intellect and giving heart, Frank’s legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.
Frank was preceded in death by his father, Alberto Trifilio and mother, Celeste Trifilio; stepson, Michael Rockaway. He is survived by his wife, Tricia Trifilio; five children from prior marriages, Nicole Haun, spouse Christopher Haun; Frank Trifilio, spouse, Amy Trifilio; Kimberly Gemza, spouse William Gemza, Jr.; Tiffany Joachim, spouse, Louis Joachim; Guiseppi Trifilio; brother, Al Trifilio; 10 grandchildren, Kyle Haun, Carter Haun, Zachary Haun, Isabella Trifilio, Frank Trifilio, Vincent Trifilio, Sebastian Trifilio, William Gemza, III, Katherine Gemza and Noah Joachim.
Frank was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He spent most of his childhood years growing up in Santurce, Puerto Rico, but also briefly living in Manhattan, New York. Frank graduated with a B.S. from the Catholic University of Ponce in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and later earned a M.S. and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry. Frank’s career accomplishments are vast with positions that included teaching at the University of Houston, working at NASA studying lunar rocks and serving as the lead chemist that developed Tagamet. He later established Analytical Computer Services, a computer servicing and vendor company, that had locations throughout Texas and in New Mexico. For those that knew Frank, they know he never really retired. He continued staying busy with selling and managing commercial and residential real estate as well as serving as a shareholder of Paradies Lagardère. His passion for knowledge and learning was reflected in his vast career and he has left an indelible mark on colleagues and industry peers.
Frank’s love for life included spending time with his family, traveling, cheering on the Aggies, Cougars and Texans, and playing craps at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. In recent years, he enjoyed a quieter change of pace taking cruises with Tricia, watching action movies and spending time with his dogs, Beastie, Tilly and Coco.
Frank touched the hearts of all who knew him and leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories that will always remain in our hearts. We will forever remember Frank, whose enduring kindness, generosity, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew him. Frank's intellect, affectionate nature, and strong work ethic were matched only by his zest for life and devotion to his family and friends. Though he may have left us physically, his legacy of love and warmth will continue to inspire and guide us.
We invite you to join us for a Celebration of Life reception at Café Piquet on April 28, 2024 from 2 – 4 PM . Light hors d'oeuvres will be served for this come-and-go reception. Please dress in island casual in honor of Frank’s love of the beach.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to University of Houston Athletics in support of the Men’s Basketball program, or the Department of Chemistry at the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Gifts can be sent to University of Houston System, Gift Processing and Records, PO Box 867, Houston, Texas 77001. Please indicate your gift is in memory of Frank Trifilio.