The passing last week of Winthrop native and WHS grad Frank DeFelice brings to an end an era in our community and on the North Shore. Both Frank and his younger brother Bob, who passed away in October, were legendary coaches at the high school and college levels.
Frank, a member of the Winthrop, Swampscott, and Mass. Baseball Coaches Halls of Fame, led the Swampscott High baseball program for 35 years during which he compiled a record of 465-257. The Swampscott High baseball field was named the Frank DeFelice Diamond in his honor this past spring in recognition of his contributions to Big Blue baseball.
However, the accomplishments of Frank DeFelice, as well as Bob’s, transcended the playing field. Both Frank and Bob mentored countless thousands of student-athletes, both on and off the field, during their careers that spanned almost six decades each.
We know we join with all of our fellow long-time Winthrop residents in expressing our condolences to Frank’s wife of 56 years, Susan, their children, and their extended family, many of whom still reside in Winthrop. May he rest in peace.