Brian Frankowski, a designer and fabricator at the University of Pittsburgh, passed away on January 9, 2024, after a long and brave battle with brain cancer. He was 54 years old.
Frankowski was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer, in early 2023. Despite his grim prognosis, he continued to work and live with passion and optimism, inspiring many people with his courage and resilience.
A Talented and Dedicated Professional
Brian Frankowski was a highly respected and valued member of the University of Pittsburgh community, where he worked for over 20 years at the McGowan Center Institute for Regenerative Medicine in the South Side.
As a designer and fabricator, Frankowski was responsible for creating and maintaining various devices and equipment used for research and education. He was known for his exceptional skills, creativity, and attention to detail, as well as his willingness to help and collaborate with colleagues and students.
Some of the projects that Frankowski contributed to include:
- The development of a bioreactor system for growing artificial organs and tissues
- The fabrication of a robotic arm for assisting stroke patients with rehabilitation
- The design of a custom-made wheelchair for a disabled dog
Frankowski’s work had a significant impact on the advancement of science and medicine, as well as the improvement of quality of life for many people and animals.
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Brian Frankowski – A Loving and Loyal Family Man
Frankowski was also a devoted husband and father, who loved his family more than anything. He is survived by his wife Devin, his son Micheal, his sister Tracey, and his parents John and Mary.
Brian Frankowski met his wife Devin at a local bar in 1992, and they married in 1995. They had their son Micheal in 1998, who inherited his father’s passion for design and engineering. Frankowski was very proud of his son, who is currently studying mechanical engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.
He was also very close to his sister Tracey, who was his best friend and confidant. They grew up together in Sheraden, where they attended Holy Innocents and Canevin High School. They shared many interests and hobbies, such as music, movies, and sports.
Frankowski’s parents John and Mary were also a source of support and inspiration for him. They taught him the values of hard work, honesty, and kindness, which he carried throughout his life.
A Courageous and Optimistic Fighter
Frankowski’s life changed dramatically when he was diagnosed with glioblastoma in February 2023, after experiencing headaches and seizures. Glioblastoma is a rare and deadly type of brain cancer that affects about 3 in 100,000 people in the United States. It has no known cure, and the average survival time is about 15 months.
Brian Frankowski underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, but the tumor continued to grow and spread. He also tried experimental treatments, such as immunotherapy and gene therapy, but none of them were effective.
Despite the odds, Frankowski never gave up hope or lost his spirit. He continued to work as much as he could, and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He also received tremendous support from the University of Pittsburgh and the broader Pittsburgh community, who rallied behind him and raised funds for his medical expenses.
Frankowski’s courage and optimism touched many people, who admired his strength and determination. He was a role model and a hero for many, who learned from his example how to face adversity with grace and dignity.
A Legacy of Design and Courage
Brian Frankowski passed away peacefully at his home on January 9, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. He left behind a legacy of design and courage, that will live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew him and benefited from his work.
The University of Pittsburgh and the McGowan Center Institute for Regenerative Medicine issued a statement expressing their condolences and gratitude to Frankowski and his family. They also announced that they will hold a memorial service to honor his life and contributions, with details to be announced soon.
As we remember Frankowski, we celebrate his life, his work, and his spirit. He was a talented and dedicated professional, a loving and loyal family man, and a courageous and optimistic fighter. He was a friend, a colleague, and a mentor. He was a designer and a hero.
He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
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