Frank Freda possessed a name that would please lovers of alliteration and a special spirit that made everyone who knew him well feel at ease. The native of the 2200 block of South Bucknell Street, highly respected for his leading role on “Diver Dan” and his insightful stage writings, died in New York City April 13 at age 79.
The West Passyunk product graduated from South Philadelphia High School, 2101 S. Broad St., in 1954 and shortly after headed to The Big Apple to chase professional glory. Success initially came through the aforementioned show, a series of live-action shorts for children. In keeping with his calling as a stirrer of emotions, he also penned numerous plays, including “Lunchtime,” the winner of the Waldo Bellow Memorial Award, and established a durable relationship with the recently-shuttered Society Hill Playhouse.
“He was very good-hearted,” MaryAnn Calvello, of the 1800 block of West Moyamensing Avenue, said of her brother, who would have celebrated his birthday on June 1. “He always gave very practical advice and was a pretty deep thinker.”
Refraining from buying a cell phone or a computer, Mr. Freda leaves behind for his family, which, in addition to Calvello mainly consists of sister Jane Froio, son Philip Sr., and grandsons Philip Jr. and Matthew, the recollection of amazing conversations.
“We are better people for having had him in our lives,” Calvello offered. “Through the show, his writings, and our memories, we’ll always treasure him.” – By Joseph Myers
