February 1925. The world was different. There were only 48 stars on the flag, Calvin Coolidge was president, Sears Roebuck & Co. opened its first store. Sweet Georgia Brown and the Charleston were the radio hits.

And, Cranston’s own Dr. Frank Del Santo was born.

Along with his family, including his daughter Anne Del Santo-Ravenscroft and her husband, Rob, and his daughter, Gina Del Santo, and her husband Stuart Easley, he celebrated with about 70 close friends and colleagues at the Sprague Mansion on Feb. 8.

Del Santo is the epitome of service and dedication. He is a graduate of the Cranston High School Class of 1945 and a retired University of Rhode Island professor.

He is a founding member of the Cranston Hall of Fame, a current member of the ROMEO (retired old men eating out) group and is a member of the Cranston Historical Society.  

His commitment to the Cranston community was recognized through the creation of the Dr. Frank Del Santo Community Service Award. The first honoree was named at the Cranston Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 2024.

The award acknowledges a person who has given of their time, energy and dedication to make Cranston a better place.

Cranston West graduate, Sgt. Adam DeCiccio, was posthumously honored for his work with veterans and serving the city.

“It was our honor to accept this distinguished award in honor of a distinguished gentleman. Thank you and the happiest 100 birthday,” said Dawn DeCiccio, Adam’s mother.

Fred Vincent, former president of the Hall of Fame, and longtime friend of DelSanto spoke of his commitment to Cranston and youth.

“On behalf of the entire board of directors and its many grateful alumni, the Cranston Hall of Fame Foundation proudly acknowledges the celebration of your 100^th birthday. Decade after decade you have been an inspirational leader not just for the Cranston Hall of Fame but for the many institutions, charities and organizations that were fortunate to share in your talents and wisdom. So, with the fondest of wishes we, your friends, colleagues and admirers hope that your 100^th birthday has brought you more than all the joy, wisdom, friendship and love that you’ve always given away so freely,” said Vincent.

Del Santo was very pragmatic about the big milestone.

“I am very fortunate to turn 100 – with a feeling that I can still help people and my family,” he said.