Frank Cali Jr

Frank Cali Jr, 82, of East Boston, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Sheila (Junkins) Cali, sharing a remarkable union of 54 years, filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Born in East Boston, MA, Frank was the son of the late Frank Cali Sr. and Teresa Bordonaro Cali. He was the beloved father of Jennifer (Cali) DiBiasio and her husband Ronald, Frank Cali III, and Alycia Cali and her husband Salvatore Vigliotta. Frank was the proud grandfather of Ariana, Justine, Ronald, and Peyton DiBiasio, Anthony Cali, Frank and Luciano Vigliotta, Neeysa Denning, and Antonio, Salvatore Jr., and Gianni Vigliotta. He never missed a sporting event, dance competition, or bowling roll off, and was always their number one fan. 

Frank’s siblings were an integral part of his life, and he is survived by his dear sister Jeanette (Cali) Redford and her husband William, and his brother Robert Cali and wife Elaine. He was predeceased by his siblings Rocco Cali, Thomas Cali, Philip Cali, Benjamin Cali, James Cali, Rose (Cali) Rice, Catherine (Cali) Stella, and Gloria Cali. He also was the proud uncle to many beloved nieces and nephews. 

A proud East Boston high school athlete, Frank excelled in track and football and consistently displayed remarkable sportsmanship. He was remembered for having the fastest quarter mile in the district. Later in life, he found joy in his work as a bartender at Jimmy Magg’s and Brinkley’s where his friendly demeanor and warm smile endeared him to many. In his leisure time Frank could be found at Central park Lanes, indulging in his passion for bowling, competing in pool tournaments at Good times, where his skills and camaraderie were admired by all, or playing cards with his friends. Above all else Frank enjoyed spending quality time with his family, as this truly meant the world to him. 

Frank’s legacy of character, love, laughter, hard-work, and devotion to his family will forever be cherished by those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and remembered fondly by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with this remarkable man. In the wise words of Frank Sonatra and Frankie Cali Jr., I did it my way. 

Family and friends will honor Frank's life by gathering at the Ruggiero Family Memorial Home, East Boston, on Monday, April 15th from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and again on Tuesday morning at 9:30 AM before leaving in procession to Sacred Heart Church in East Boston for a 11 AM funeral mass. 
 

In lieu of Flowers, please donate to the PACE program, which is an incredible elderly service program that helped Frankie so much. Checks can be sent to: Lewis Mall Elder Services PACE, In care of East Boston Neighborhood Health Center, 10 Gove, St, East Boston, MA, 02128, In loving memory of Frank Cali Jr.