Richard L. "Dick" Frenzel

Dick Frenzel, 88, of La Grange, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on June 19, 2025. He is preceded in death by his parents Melvin and Frances Frenzel and by his sister Jean Frenzel. He is survived by his wife Jerri of 66 years, son Kevin (Sherry); daughter Erin (Nancy); grandchildren Lauren, Steven (Ashley), and Katherine (fiancé Arsalan).
Dick was born on May 29, 1937 and was raised in Houston. He was a true titan of the marine industry with over 60 years of unparalleled experience, leaving behind a legacy of expertise, leadership, and a profound impact on maritime operations and safety. His illustrious career began in 1953 as a deckhand with Anderson Petroleum Transportation, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become a captain of coastal tugs. His early years were briefly interrupted by enlisting in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and served on the Aircraft Carrier Wasp. This foundational experience set the stage for a lifetime deeply intertwined with the water.
A highly respected Marine Surveyor, Consultant, and Marine Appraiser for 40 years, Dick was the driving force behind Dixieland Marine, Inc. in Houston and Corpus Christi, Texas. In this role, he conducted extensive surveys on a wide array of vessels, from tugs and barges to U.S.C.G. inspected passenger vessels and yachts, serving underwriters, lenders, and buyers. His keen eye and deep understanding of maritime operations also made him an invaluable asset in litigation support, assisting with personal injury, damage, and fraud investigations. Dick's hands-on approach extended to occasional trips as a Master or Trip Pilot on various vessels and managing shipyard drydock and repair operations.
Throughout his career, Richard held numerous significant positions that showcased his diverse talents and unwavering commitment to the marine sector. He served as the Project Surveyor for the historic Battleship "TEXAS" Restoration Project, meticulously preparing the ship for tow, writing repair specifications, and supervising its major overhaul. As Marine Supervisor for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Coastal Fisheries Division, he spearheaded the design and construction of modern fisheries research vessels, developed comprehensive safety and operations manuals, and originated training programs for boat operators.
Dick's leadership was further evident during his tenure as Vice President and General Manager of Redfish Bay Terminal/Shipyard, where he designed, acquired permits for, supervised the construction of, and managed a state-of-the-art oil support terminal and vessel repair yard. He was also instrumental in developing a new method of blister repair for FRP boats. His international experience included serving as Operations Manager for Otis Engineering Corp.'s Middle East Division in Saudi Arabia, overseeing a fleet of self-propelled Jack-up rigs and oil field service vessels in the Arabian Gulf. Earlier in his career, he was a Port Captain for Swift Ships, Inc., commanding vessels carrying up to 250 passengers.
A prolific author, Richard penned Vessel Operations and Safety Manuals for four different organizations, underscoring his dedication to maritime safety and best practices. He held a formidable array of credentials and licenses, including a Master of Towing Vessels, 200 Ton Power Driven Passenger Vessels, and 100 Ton Sailing Vessels on Near Coastal, Inland, and Great Lakes waters. He was also a Certified Marine Surveyor with the National Association of Marine Surveyors and a Sr. Accredited Marine Surveyor and Charter Member of the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors. His continuous pursuit of knowledge was evident in his completion of courses such as the American Society of Appraisers USPAP Course, Marine Accident Reconstruction School, U.S.C.G. National Search and Rescue School, and CCSU (now TAMU Corpus Christi) Water Pollution Control. In addition to his marine career, he also served in the law enforcement arena as a Law Enforcement Officer – Corpus Christi, Accident Investigator, Department of Public Safety, Police Chief – Texas State Institute, Harlingen, Texas, Deputy Constable – Nueces County, Precinct 7, U.S. Marshall Service Security Deputy, La Grange Citizens on Patrol President, retired, and Justice of Peace Precinct 3, Fayette County – 2015 – 2016.
Dick was a respected member of numerous professional organizations, including: American Boat & Yacht Council, National Fire Protection Association, International Association of Marine Investigators, U.S.C.G. Auxiliary, where he served as a National Staff Officer, VFW – Post 5254 Commander 2012 – 2016, American Legion Post 102, La Grange Noon Lions Club, and the Fayette Community Theater, performing in Our Town and Arsenic and Old Lace productions.
In addition to his work experience, Dick was also an avid sailor. He learned to sail in Galveston Bay with tutelage from nationally known Racing Skippers. He also competitively raced in Corpus Christi Bay and offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico including the 1980 Galveston-Vera Cruz Race. While in Saudi Arabia, he taught sailing to expatriate scholar teachers in the Arabian Gulf near Ras Tanura and Bahrain.
Dick's life was a testament to his passion for the marine industry. His extensive knowledge, dedication to safety, and unwavering commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on countless individuals and organizations. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
The Family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of Visiting Angels Hospice for their caring and assistance in Dick's final days.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at St. James Episcopal Church in La Grange on July 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. with a reception to follow at Frisch Auf! Valley Country Club. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter, St. James Episcopal Preschool, or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations, 208W. Pearl St., La Grange, Texas. Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com.