Frank Anthony Scarpino

Frank Anthony Scarpino lived his life with a brilliant mind, a relentless work ethic, and a strong determination that shaped every path he walked. He passed away on April 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy built through innovation, teaching, entrepreneurship, and a lifelong devotion to the people he loved most — his family.

Born on May 4, 1940, in Jamestown, New York, to Frank Paul Scarpino and Mamie Cimino Scarpino, Frank grew up with a natural drive that showed itself early. At Jamestown High School, he was a multi-sport athlete, playing baseball, basketball, football, and running track. He earned recognition as an All-American football player, a distinction that reflected both his talent and his tenacity.

After graduation, Frank attended the University of Cincinnati, studying in the College of Electrical Engineering. His early career took him into groundbreaking work at the University of Cincinnati Hospital, where he contributed to some of the earliest developments in radiation treatment for cancer — work that would touch countless lives. Following this important research, Frank earned his master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati, and later his Ph.D. from the University of Dayton,

Frank’s passion for learning naturally evolved into a passion for teaching. He joined the faculty at Alfred University in Alfred, New York, where he shared his knowledge with the next generation of engineers. Eventually, he returned to Ohio, continuing his career at NCR, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and later as a professor at the University of Dayton.

Even after retiring from full-time teaching, Frank never stepped away from the work that inspired him. He continued consulting through the University of Dayton Research Institute well into his 80s, much of it in collaboration with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Frank’s entrepreneurial spirit led him into multiple ventures, including True Dimensional Sound (TDS), Insight Technologies, and Balance Back Medical Technology. He held numerous patents and authored a technical textbook used in college courses.

But for all his accomplishments, Frank’s greatest devotion was to his family. He married Kay Campbell in 1963, and together they built a partnership that lasted 63 years — a lifetime of shared purpose, laughter, and unwavering support. They raised two children, Denise (Mark) Engert and Mark (Colleen) Scarpino, who grew up knowing their father was their biggest supporter.

Frank was a proud grandfather to Christina (Nick) Fischer, Katie (Tom) Solarek, Carolyn (Ryan) Bubar, Matthew Scarpino, and Meighan Scarpino. Nothing brought him more joy than being present for them. You could find him at every game, ceremony, and milestone, camera in hand, capturing the moments that mattered. Supporting his grandchildren wasn’t an obligation; it was one of the great joys of his life.

Frank was also deeply committed to the power of education, a belief that shaped the focus and values of his entire family. He poured his time, energy, and resources into helping his children and grandchildren succeed — from tutoring sessions at the kitchen table, to investing in technology that supported their learning, to helping wherever he could with both undergraduate or graduate studies. Encouraging education wasn’t just something he valued; it was something he lived, and it brought him immense pride to see his family carry that commitment forward.

In 1990, Frank and Kay purchased a home at Indian Lake, a place created with one purpose: to build memories. It became the heart of countless gatherings with friends and family — a place where stories were told, laughter echoed, and traditions took root. Frank even invented his own holiday, Family Day, a celebration dedicated entirely to the people he loved. And nothing delighted him more than Family Dinners, frequent gatherings at his favorite local restaurants, where conversation, connection, and togetherness were always on the menu. Frank also had a deep love of animals. He enjoyed spoiling the family pets.

Recently, Frank and Kay moved into the Saint Leonard’s community, where they quickly found friendship, support, and a sense of belonging. They embraced the activities and the people around them, grateful for the warmth and companionship.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Kay; his children and grandchildren; and his brother Jim (Roger Starcher). He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Angeline Maas.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at St. Leonard Chapel (8100 Clyo Rd), with the family receiving friends and loved ones one hour prior to the service. A private burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105 or Hannah’s Treasure Chest,2490 Technical Drive, Miamisburg, Oh 45342, causes that reflect Frank’s lifelong compassion and generosity.