Obituary published on Legacy.com by Dettling Funeral Home on Apr. 14, 2025.
Frank Timothy "Tim" Olexa (1954-2025)
Known for his perpetual smile, Frank Timothy Olexa, 71, of
Houston, TX, passed away on April 4, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer.
Tim was born on February 9, 1954, in Bryan, TX, to Doris June Kuhn, a homemaker, and Erwin Rudolph Olexa, a World War II Veteran and architect. The third of six children,Tim grew up in an orderly but bustling household in Beaumont, TX. Early on, he became a tag-along to his older brothers, Mike and Bill. In high school, he was the star fullback on the football team and a standout track athlete. He spent many summers with his grandparents in Houston, where he first became involved with SPJST Lodge 88. He had fond memories of participating in Lodge activities which honored his Czech heritage. He later became a lifetime member.
Tim met the love of his life, Eva, in 1983 on a blind date. They often said their paths must have crossed as children, as Eva's family were also members of the Lodge. That same year, they founded their business, FTO Installations, specializing in storage equipment and material handling. They married in 1987 and welcomed their son, Travis, soon after, followed by their daughter, Brittney, in 1989.
A self-motivated small business owner who always saw the good in others, Tim mentored many employees through the years. He believed in second chances and in giving people a hand up. He dedicated many years of service to his church as a member of the Knights of Columbus and as an usher.
Tim was a loving and supportive father who was always the first to volunteer for anything pertaining to his children's passions. From coaching Little League to building set designs for ballet productions, Tim went above and beyond. When his son, Travis, joined the football team at Tulane University, Tim spent many fall weekends traveling to watch him play across Texas and Louisiana.
Tim was most content on his family's property in Tomball, where he and Eva spent cherished time with their children-and later, their grandchildren. He loved being "Paw Paw" to his five grandchildren and never stopped smiling when he was with them.
He was also known for hosting friends and family for barbeque dinners. There will never be a smoked chicken that compares to his. He will always be remembered for his joyful demeanor, and his inability to take life too seriously. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who love him.
Tim was preceded in death by his loving parents, Doris and Erwin Olexa, and his brothers Michael, Robert, and Jeffrey Olexa. He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Eva Olexa; his son, Travis Olexa, and wife, Jacquelyn; his daughter, Brittney Guerra, and husband, Robert; his grandchildren Aidan and Harper Olexa, and Jaxon, Phoenix, and Jonah Guerra; his brother, Bill Olexa, and wife, Kate; and his sister, Kathy Steinman, and husband, John.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tim's memory to St. Thomas High School in
Houston, TX.