Frank Charles Dicataldo

Frank was born in New Jersey on June 06, 1962. He grew up in Elizabeth and Rahway, New Jersey, with his younger brother, Andrew. His maternal grandmother, Rose, played a pivotal role in his life, and he credited her for his love of cooking and good cuisine. He enjoyed summers on the Jersey shore and holiday gatherings with family, a tradition he continued with his own children. Frank remained true to his New Jersey roots throughout his life and loved talking about sports and music, especially his beloved New York Mets.

Frank earned a Bachelor's degree at Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Saint Louis University. Frank then continued his professional training at St. Elizabeths Hospital’s John Howard Pavilion and subsequently completed a post-doctoral fellowship in forensic psychology at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Frank furthered his forensic training at Bridgewater State Hospital and was later an integral figure in establishing Bedford Policy Institute, a non-profit agency, to provide quality forensic evaluation of juveniles in the Department of Youth Services.

Frank was a Full Professor at Roger Williams University, where he was deeply committed to teaching and mentoring students in forensic psychology. Among Frank's many academic and research accomplishments, including articles and book chapters, is his regarded book, The Perversion of Youth: Controversies in the Assessment and Treatment of Juvenile Sex Offenders.

Frank devoted his life to the pursuit of knowledge and the teaching and mentoring of others. He was widely respected for his expertise in forensic psychology, particularly his work with adults and juveniles involved in the justice system. His greatest gifts extended well beyond his intellect and professional accomplishments. Frank was personable, charming, and warm. He had an ability to put others at ease, and people were naturally drawn to him. Frank’s colleagues, students, and former clients have spoken of the profound difference he made in their lives. His work continues through the lives of those he helped, the students and professionals he mentored, and the many people who were fortunate enough to experience his generosity, wisdom, and friendship.

Frank is survived by his wife of 25 years, Barbara Quiñones, and their two sons, Samuel and Leonzio, whom he cherished and adored. He is also survived by his mother and stepfather (Mary Ellen and Victor Padlo), brother and sister-in-law (Andrew and Patricia DiCataldo), nieces (Francesca and Angelina), and father and mother-in-law (Eduardo and Barbara Quiñones). He was predeceased by his father, Frank DiCataldo, and his grandmother, Rose Rafanello.

A memorial service will be held at Sullivan Funeral Homes in Hanover, MA on Saturday, October 10th, 2:00- 6:00 pm. (Service at 4:30 pm.) In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the May Institute, Philanthropy Office, 41 Pacella Park Drive, Randolph, MA 02368. Please indicate that the donation is intended for the "91 Masthead Dr. group home, Norwell."