Frank Joseph Verde

Frank Verde passed away peacefully on October 25th, surrounded by his family. He lived a full and vibrant life to the age of 92, maintaining his curiosity, humor, health, and dignity until the end.

Frank was the first-born male of his generation in a large Italian family and was quickly dubbed “the prince.” Surrounded by many doting aunts and uncles, he grew up in Baltimore’s close-knit Little Italy neighborhood before his family moved to a home built by his grandfather in Hamilton. He remained forever proud of his Baltimore roots.

A graduate of City College High School, Frank went on to earn both his B.S. and D.D.S. degrees from the University of Maryland. He served three years in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Savannah, Georgia, before earning a postgraduate degree in Orthodontics from Columbia University.

Dr. Verde’s distinguished career as an Orthodontist spanned more than 50 years. He opened his first private practice in 1963, was active in numerous professional organizations, and continued to serve as a consultant until the age of 80.

In 1956, Frank married Barbara J. Messick, with whom he raised four children. In 1982, he married Patricia (Orr) Smith and welcomed his fifth child.

Above all, family was at the heart of Frank’s life. He was proud to have reclaimed the ancestral family home in Italy, and his love of travel took him and his family around the world—including a period living in Iran. He delighted in his convertible sports cars, good music, art, bocce, a little mischief and lively, thought-provoking conversations.

Frank was the eldest son of Carmella (Pellegrini) and Frank Verdecchia. He was predeceased by his brother Joseph Verdecchia, his son Steven Verde, his wife Patricia (Smith) Verde, and his grandson Kelsey Skokan.

He is survived by four of his five children: Ann Marie, Mike (Laurie), Mary Jo (Dan Colwell), and Jill Skokan (Eric); daughter-in-law Kathy Verde; three stepchildren: Debbie Gray (Harry), Jim (Maureen), and Steve (Karla); seventeen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will take place at Chiapparelli’s in Baltimore on November 15th from 1–4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Frank’s name to NPR or The Little Italy Lodge 2286.

"If my name, or face, or a memory of me should pop into your mind – do me a favor and smile at someone for no reason at all."