Frank Muniz Pia

10/19/1945 - 8/28/2013
I have had some close calls and a few unhealthy habits, so I am glad I have lasted as long as I have.
My life started when my Dutch grandmother met my Austrian grandfather in Salt Lake City. My father, LeRoy Quinten Pia, was their product. He went to Brazil on a mormon mission. He stayed in Brazil working for 9 years as it was a refreshing environmental change. My then 19 year old mother, Maria Jose Muniz, married my dad in Brazil and I was born in the city of Vitoria in 1945. We came to the U.S. when I was three along with my little brother Ron. It was fun growing up with my siblings, Ronaldo F., LeRoy J., and Shanoa M. Pia.
After graduating from East High in 1963 I spent 4 years in the Navy serving 3 tours in the Viet Nam War on the U.S.S. Alamo as a radarman first class. It was a profound experience for me. The G.I. bill helped me pay for my engineering education at the University of Utah.
I married my high school girlfriend Patricia Anne Thomas, and we had two beautiful daughters, Anne and Jennifer. My daughters have always been my pride and joy. Pat and I divorced but have remained good friends.
When I met Linda Elin Diaz - it was love at first sight. We have now been married for almost 30 years. Linda has been my angel of mercy and pillow of peace and I am so lucky that she has been so devoted to me as I am to her. Our life together has been the absolute best part of my life. I think of Linda's son, Ian Skomski, as my son and over the years we have learned to love and respect each other. I am very proud of him.
The biggest tragedy of my life was the passing of my brother, LeRoy in 1997. I think of him every day.
I have had great friends, especially Richard Heiner, Terry Palmer, Tony Diaz, Roger Iverson and Nick Fasselin. They made my life full and fun.
Significant accomplishments in my life were a small contribution to the water improvement industry, a chance to travel extensively, and positive relationships with my family members and friends.
I am survived by my wife, Linda, my daughters Anne (Todd) and Jennifer (Nick), my son Ian (Cyndi), my grandchildren, Daisy, Frank, Francesca, Sophia and Violet. Also, my much loved mother, Maria Jose Pia, brother Ron, sister Shanoa and many other family members and friends.
I guess I have a regret or two, but mostly I've just been a lucky guy.
Frank and his family would like to thank the doctors and staff at the VA Hospital and the Huntsman Cancer Center for their kindness to Frank, especially Dr. Cindy Leech, Dr. Sam Slomowitz, and Dr. Jonathan Tward.
According to Frank's wishes his remains will be cremated and there will be no service. There will be a gathering for family and friends on Saturday, September 21 at Maria Pia's home, 1635 E. Yalecrest Ave. from 2:00-6:00 p.m.
Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.starksfuneral.com