Remembering frank merritt, pe

Frank Edward Merritt served as Principal and Executive Vice President of Ten Eyck, Merritt, Barnett & Pitt (TMBP), where he was a foundational figure in shaping the firm’s identity, reputation, and technical excellence. He passed away on April 17, 2024, surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy defined by integrity, leadership, and more than four decades of dedicated service to the engineering profession.

Born in Eagle Pass, Texas, Frank graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. As the first member of his family to earn a college degree, he built a remarkable career through determination, curiosity, and a strong work ethic. He was an active member of Chi Epsilon and maintained a lifelong connection to the engineering community.

Frank joined the firm in 1969 and became a key leader as TMBP evolved into one of the region’s respected structural and civil engineering practices. Throughout his 43-year tenure, he was known for his thoughtful problem-solving, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to quality. His leadership influenced every facet of the firm—from internal culture to project execution—and helped guide its growth across multiple decades of change.

Even after his retirement in 2012, Frank remained a trusted resource for the firm. He generously continued assisting with industrial and warehouse developments, offering his expertise, steady judgment, and practical insight whenever he was needed. His willingness to return and support the team—years after officially stepping away—reflected both his dedication to the craft and his genuine desire to help others succeed.

Over the course of his career, Frank contributed to numerous significant developments throughout North Texas and beyond. His notable projects included the San Jacinto Tower in downtown Dallas; the Nortel Tower in Richardson; Reverchon Plaza; the Forest Plaza Towers; the Diamond Shamrock/KPMG Tower (now 717 Harwood); and major commercial office projects such as One First Union Center and Charlotte Plaza in Charlotte, North Carolina. He also played a substantial role in industrial and warehouse developments across Texas, Colorado, Louisiana, and North Carolina. Frank’s thoughtful engineering, steady judgment, and attention to detail continue to define many of these structures today.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Frank was deeply committed to his faith and community. He was an active member of the Cowboy Church of Ellis County and volunteered with Crisis Response Ministry of Ellis County. He cherished time with his family, enjoyed travel and golf, and participated in the “3 C’s” weekly fellowship group, sharing humor, support, and friendship with those around him.

Frank is remembered with gratitude by his colleagues, friends, and family. His decades of service, leadership, and the example he set continue to influence the firm he helped build. His legacy endures in the projects he led, the people he mentored, and the strong foundation he established for future generations.