Frank David Patkowski

Frank David Patkowski, 85, of Bethany, was called home to his eternal rest on December 24, 2025, passing peacefully from his earthly home into the arms of his Savior, surrounded by the family he so dearly loved.
A son of the Oklahoma plains, Frank was born on August 7, 1940, in Camargo, to the late Max V. and Gladys C. (Davis) Patkowski. His youth in northwest Oklahoma and his formative summers working the ranches of West Texas instilled in him a legendary work ethic and a spirit of rugged dependability. A 1958 graduate of Vici High School, Frank attended the University of Oklahoma before answering the call to serve his country.
A proud veteran, Frank served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1962. Rising to the rank of Sergeant, he served with distinction along the DMZ in the Republic of Korea with the 51st Signal Battalion-a period of his life he held in high honor.
Upon returning to civilian life, Frank dedicated decades of diligent labor to the telecommunications industry, serving with Western Electric, AT&T, and Southwestern Bell Mobile Systems. A pioneer in his field, he helped lay the foundations for the modern communications we use today, retiring in 1997 after a career defined by integrity and expertise.
Frank was a man of many gifts, blessed with the hands of a master craftsman and the soul of a storyteller. Whether he was constructing "bomb-proof" projects from simple sketches, navigating the skies after his first solo flight in 1979, or finding God's handiwork in the beauty of a campsite, he lived with purpose. His greatest joy, however, was found in the laughter of his grandchildren and the quiet moments spent with those he loved.
He was preceded in glory by his parents; his sisters, Corrine McIntosh, Marjorie Abshire, and Bernita Dial; and his brothers, Victor and Dick Patkowski.
His legacy of faith and family remains with his devoted wife of 57 years, Donna Hope (Cosner) Patkowski; his sons, Max (Holly), Chad, and Brad Patkowski; his cherished grandchildren, Jenna, Sarah, Lauren, Kyle, and Ben; his great-grandchildren, Karter and Grayson; and his brothers, Mick and Rick Patkowski.
While we grieve his absence, we do not mourn as those without hope. We rejoice in the promise of the Resurrection and find peace knowing that Frank now walks in the presence of our Heavenly Father, where sorrow and pain are no more.
Services will be announced by the family at a later date.