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Frank Roberts Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Frank Roberts
Beth Gallagher Malloy
February 10, 2022
Mr. Roberts name came up recently in conversation with classmates from 1980. Not sure I can put into words how much Mr Roberts meant to me as a teacher and director. I would not have graduated had it not been for him. Thank you Mr. Roberts for instilling lasting self confidence in so many of us.
Pauline Finberg
August 15, 2020
Frank had a heart of gold and was someone who had so many wonderful stories and loved to share them. He is greatly missed. Love, Big D
Gabriel Gouveia
August 15, 2020
A truly good guy and friend.
Julia Radochia-Ward
May 20, 2011
Dear Mr. Roberts,
I'm sorry to be so late writing here. My deepest sympathies to your family. You are in my thoughts more than you might know. You were an amazing teacher, so much better than acting teachers I had later on. You stretched me, made me think in new directions, made me a better actor than I thought I already was. I witnessed you bring out abilities in people that they didn't know they had. And you were one of the few teachers who seemed to really believe in me.
And, besides your talents, you were a good, caring, passionate man.
Thank you, Mr. Roberts.
Love to you and your loved ones,
Julia
Frank at Reagle 2009
Jo Roberts
November 11, 2010
Frank Summer 2009
Jo Roberts
November 11, 2010
The real Frank
Joanna Roberts
November 11, 2010
Stacy Newsom Webber
September 28, 2010
Frank Roberts was a wonderful teacher and mentor. He played such an important role during my years at AHS. He taught me drama while also teaching me about life. I will always be greatful for all of the lessons he taught me.
John McGah
September 28, 2010
I just learned a little late that Frank Roberts died. When you are a teenager you want nothing more than to be taken seriously as an adult. Mr. Roberts took you seriously and had serious adult expectations for you. We were not staying late at rehearsals to do a high school show, we were in it do a serious piece of theater and you better bring your A game as far as effort, and as far as pushing yourself. That was a great example as a teenager for sure, but as an adult too. Frank Roberts, in everything he did, said, "I take this seriously and I take you seriously and collectively we are going to stretch and reach for the best we have." I loved his classes, and I loved his plays because of that. I remember he gave us a monologue writing assigment about death. I turned in something that I probably wrote last minute. He gave it back. He wanted me to go deeper, put something real on the paper. I did and I had something that I felt good about but it was a little vulnerable. I ran into him in the library and showed it to him. He immediately pulled me aside from a group of friends and very seriously and sensatively said, "This is what I was looking for. You've captured a moment. Something real." He took it SO seriously and made me feel like I had something to express. My voice mattered. What a great life's work doing that for thousands of people!
1975 AHS Yearbook Photo
Lisa Erickson-Barreto
September 25, 2010
Pauline Finberg
September 24, 2010
I can't believe there won't be coffee and a laugh, e-mails about all things political, and that cheerful voice calling me "Big D". You were the "spotlight" at AHS and to so many people. Your memory will always be a blessing.
My condolences to Frank's family. You are surrounded and supported by so many who loved him.
Sincerely, Pauline Finberg
Ben Mayerson
September 3, 2010
Mr. Roberts' influence on my life began in the early 70's and continues each and everyday. I can honestly say that I wouldn't be who I am this day (and everyday) without his guidance, mentoring, love of life, and 'the biz'.
Thanks to him (and Mr. Smith) I went on to professional studies and a career in showbiz. I never hesitated to remind them of that every time I saw them. "This is all your fault!" I would tell him, and he would smile that smile, and laugh that laugh. I still hear his voice coming out of the darkness of the house during rehearsals. He was one of the toughest and most loving teachers I have ever had. Mr. Roberts, 'thanks' gives no scale of appreciation I owe you. Surely a bright spotlight shines down from heaven.
God Bless you Mr. Roberts!!
Drama Club 1975
Bill Cimbrelo
September 2, 2010
Directing 1975
Bill Cimbrelo
September 2, 2010
Bill Cimbrelo
September 2, 2010
From 1973 through my graduation in 1975, “Mr. Roberts” was a man I respected and loved. I remember going back one summer, long after graduation, perhaps 15-20 years ago, to see one of the plays he was directing with the high school kids. I found him in the back of the auditorium and we both immediately got teary eyed as we greeted each other warmly. That was the last time I saw him, but I literally have never stopped thinking about his influence on me. He taught me so much self confidence and that life is truly what we make it. I will be eternally grateful for the time you shared him with me and I hope my words fill your hearts with the pride and love I also feel. Love always, J. P. Finch
Jane McGivney
August 31, 2010
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Frank's passing.He was a dear friend,we spent many hilarious lunches together in the music staff room with Andy and Jerry.My deepest sympathy Jo,to you and your family.I will always carry a warm spot for Frank in my heart.
David Giagrando
August 30, 2010
Frank provided me with one of the roles of a lifetime - Fiorello. I will always remember his kindness and support. May his spirit live on and shine in the infamous theater ghost light - DMG
Sheri Ziccardi
August 30, 2010
Frank - Those of us who had the pleasure of knowing and working with you will remember you fondly always.
To your family, I offer my heartfelt sympathy and prayers. Thank you for sharing him with all of us!
August 28, 2010
It was with great sorrow that I learned of Mr. Robert's passing. He taught me so much, at my years at AHS, and I'm still using his teachings when I volunteer at the childrens' theatre. My sympathies to his family.
Stacey Faulkner McNally
Erin Maguire
August 27, 2010
Mr. Roberts was my very first and most prominent mentor in theatre. If it were not for his encouragement, I would be nowhere today. He had faith in me at moments when I had none in myself. He pushed me to see more in myself, as a person and performer. He made sure I never settled for anything less than the most of myself. I am forever in his debt.
The world will be different without him here, but I, for one, am glad he is keeping a watchful eye from above. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Reed Taylor
August 27, 2010
It was with deep sorrow I learned of the passing of Frank Roberts. I was the Chairman of the English Department and Assistant Principal at AHS. Frank was an outstanding leader, a great director,and a fine Gentleman. He has gone to a better place but his legacy at AHS will live on. My sincere sympathy to the family.
Reed Kingston Taylor
August 26, 2010
I was shocked when I was told about Frank's passing. I was the Chairman of the English Department at Arlington High School and also the Assistant Principal. I found Frank to be an outstanding teacher,a great director,and a great inspiration to all of his students and,above all,a gentleman. My sincere sympathy to the family.
August 25, 2010
Our most sincere sympathy to Jo and his familly. Fondly, Lorraine & Ernie Stevens
Gregory Phelan
August 25, 2010
I remember my first monologue, I remember my first straight play, I remember my first musical. Mr. Roberts was there for all of them. My entire life I had wanted to be an actor. Mr. Roberts wrote in my yearbook - and I'm quoting as it sits here in my lap - "remember that theater is 95% perspiration and 5% inspiration. Work diligently, apply yourself and PERSIST". 25 years later, I still live by those words. And although I now write and produce and don't pursue acting as much anymore, always inside of me will beat the heart of an actor. And that actor's heart started beating faster with excitement the moment I stepped into my first theater arts class headed by the indomitable Frank Roberts. I read some of the other messages and I smiled in remembrance - sure, Mr. Robert and I got into it once or twice, you always knew from that voice in the back of the theater when you did it right and when you did it, well, not right. My fondest memories are of those years, hands down: The breathless excitement in M2 just before a show, the way Mr. Roberts and Mr. Smith got the very best from deep inside of us, the exhiliration after the curtain came down. I came back to AHS to visit once or twice and he was always so welcoming and (still) encouraging. I can honestly say I wouldn't be here in LA today still "persisting" with the guidance, support and teachings of Frank Roberts.
August 24, 2010
A genuine lover and supporter of the theatre and a real gentleman who was a pleasure to deal with as a member of the press. So sorry for your loss.
Nancy Grossman
BroadwayWorld.com
Kellie Connors-Guerriero
August 24, 2010
Mr. Roberts was the kind of teacher who could teach you about life without teaching you. He helped me and so many others find our trueselves and empowered us to use the abilities that lay below the surface. May you rest in peace...
Tanya Ott
August 24, 2010
I was very sorry to hear of Mr. Roberts' passing. I think often of him and of his classes, which changed my life, and were real highlights during my time at AHS. Rest in peace, Frank, and thank you for all that you taught me.
Thaiadora Katsos Dorow
August 24, 2010
Mr Roberts, may all of us may leave such a positive impression and impact on our students as you have left on us. We adored you as much as you adored all of us. Thaiadora.
Thrasivoulos Koulouris
August 24, 2010
What a great man. He was the very best teacher I ever had. It was a privilege to perform in musicals and drama club shows under his direction at Arlington High School. I loved every minute of it. I can still see Frank giving me a raised eye brow and a smile when I would perform a skit differently than he directed me too and saying "it must be a greek thing right lakis". My sincere condolences to the Roberts Family.
Dave Tassone
August 24, 2010
A great teacher and great man who challenged his students to be whoever they desired to be...onstage or off.
"I know you're not the character. We all know you're not the character. But what if you WERE the character."
Michael Stevens
August 24, 2010
Mr, Roberts, thank you for all that you did during my years at AHS. You touched many people lives and you will be missed!
Edward Stanley Rutkowski
August 24, 2010
Frank! You treated us like pros and worked us harder in high school than any director I've worked with since. I will never forget the impact you had and continue to have on me, as an actor and as a man. Thank you Frank. I adore you and will miss you deeply.
Maryjo Paradis-Smith
August 23, 2010
Thank you Mr. Roberts for teaching me that the most important gift you can give to students is respect.I always felt respected by you and because of this I gave you 110%. It is a gift that I hope I give to my middle school students. You were a true mentor. I am the teacher I am because of you.
Lucile Burt
August 23, 2010
Frank and I were colleagues for over thirty years at Arlington High School. I admired him so much for his inspirational teaching which demanded much from and rewarded much to so many students. I know many whose lives and school experience were changed because of Frank's teaching and guidance. For my part, I relied on him always for his wit and wisdom in good times and challenging times. You could always count on Frank for the bon mot at just the right moment. My condolences to those he leaves behind. The world is a poorer place without Frank in it.
Alice Curley
August 23, 2010
Mr. Roberts was a wonderful teacher. He touched so many lives. My condolences to his family.
I can't imagine my high school years without Mr. Roberts. Being part of his shows, classes, and drama club gave me some of the greatest memories of my life. I will always be grateful that I was one of his students.
Dotty Healy
August 23, 2010
My sympathies to all of Frank's family and friends. He was my teacher and my director. I feel blessed to have been his student and one of his actors. He set the Best standard, one to keep living up to. The world is a better place because of him. Remembering Frank is a smile in my heart.
Frank Roberts Spring 2001, Arlington Town Hall
August 23, 2010
Christine Sieberg
August 23, 2010
My condolences to the Roberts' family. Mr. Roberts was a wonderful teacher and mentor and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. I once read a quote, "When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure." I will always treasure the memories I have of Mr. Roberts.
The Frank - Frank Roberts, Spring 2001, Arlington Town Hall
Fran Carnes
August 23, 2010
To The Frank –
I will always remember you in the back of the "house" at the top of the aisle next to the lighting booth door in the shadows at Arlington High School auditorium, sneaking a cigarette, and watching your creations unfold and laughing the loudest at the punch lines and the actors' antics. You were the best. Bravo!
Fran Carnes
Gabriel Gouveia
August 23, 2010
My sincere condolences to Frank's family. I worked with Frank as a music teacher in the performing arts department. He was a wonderful teacher with a great smile. Students and teachers appreciated his good work. He made a lasting impression and will not be forgotten.
Emma Carroll
August 23, 2010
An amazing teacher, a leader and a mentor. I will never forget how much he did to bring out the best in his students. He has meant so much to me over the years, his class and "musicals, not plays" have yielded my favorite memories from high school. Through the years, how he chose to give me the more challenging opportunity rather than the easy one, has been and will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers to your family. You will be greatly missed.
Kathleen Thebodo-Gray
August 23, 2010
To the Roberts Family, we express our deepest condolences on the loss of Frank. He was a wonderful friend and colleague to our father, Jerry Thebodo. He always had a smile and kind words for us when our dad brought us to AHS to see a show. You are in our thoughts and prayers. - The Thebodo family
Christine Lukkarinen-Denson
August 23, 2010
You will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to your family.
Laurel Carnes
August 23, 2010
Mr. Roberts,
Your brilliant mind and unending support gave me the confidence to push myself beyond my own limits, both as an adolescent and as an adult. Your passion for teaching was one which shall remain unparalleled.
I will always cherish those precious memories in your theater as some of my most joyful. I can still hear your boisterous laugh from the back row. You were my mentor and friend.
Thank you, Frank, for everything you did for me. For all of us. Words can not express my gratitude.
Betty-Jeanne Rueters-Ward
August 22, 2010
A teacher, and a leader, and a wise and passionate soul like none other. Mr. Roberts touched so many lives, made a real long-term impact on thousands of us.
Elisa Hamilton
August 22, 2010
A wonderful teacher and truly wonderful friend...What a special thing you gave to all of us.
Cathy Butler
August 22, 2010
Frank, you were an amazing teacher and an amazing friend. I will never forget the many hours we spent laughing in your office at AHS. You brought humor to every staff meeting and every event that ever took place at AHS for the 34 years that I worked with you. My sympathy to your family.
Lisa Erickson-Barreto
August 22, 2010
Printed in my ‘75 Arlington High School "Indian" Yearbook is this F.R. quote: “You must work for your objectives!!!!” I can see him in his gray cable-knit sweater, smug smile and jet black mustache asking me that challenging question, “What is your character’s primary objective?”
Whether learning the art of pantomime, puppetry, make-up, prop management or stage acting, Mr. Roberts influenced me to become my own character in life. Edging out from my high school shell, his directorship and encouragement made it possible for me to work towards my objectives with careers in hotel management, writing, public speaking, consulting and now civilian personnel law and federal mediation.
Mr. Roberts passes his baton of wisdom to us with one final question: “What is your primary objective in life?” I am certain his answer would be, love. For his skill in the dramatic arts, combined with his abilities and style to guide and encourage thousands of students to explore their unique creative potential, could only have been born out of love.
My condolences to his family as they ponder the light Frank passes on to his AHS students. As my Drama teacher and Drama Club/G&S Director, he has left a footprint on my life and in my heart.
With gratitude,
Michelle Paradis Hamblin
August 22, 2010
Mr Roberts was a wonderful person,a gifted teacher and a talented director. His class was a haven in those growing pain years of High School, a time in which you needed something besides math and writing. He nurtured emotional intelligence and expression...heart and soul!! How important. He helped and inspired so many people. I feel blessed to have known him.
Linda Atlas-Reese
August 21, 2010
Mr. Roberts, your legacy lives on in the memories and lives of so many. You epitomize the word teacher in every sense of the word! On a personal note, I hope you know how envious so many of us girls were when you got married! (and yet so thrilled for you at the same time!) My sympathy to your family on their great loss, they were well loved by you, and you were well loved by all of us AHSers.
Liz Wright
August 21, 2010
Mr. Roberts was one of those teachers who really made a difference, to me and to so many others. He made each of us feel special, to find our talent, and to feel good about ourselves. I worked in the professional theatre for many years, and came to realize that what I learned from Mr. Roberts was as good as what I could have learned from many of the famous acting programs. I will miss him.
Anne Louise Mammola Breslin
August 21, 2010
"Uncle Frank" as we so affectionately called you, were a wonderful teacher and mentor. I still use so many of the skills you taught me in my community theater life and I thank you for that. Our paths crossed a coupled of years ago when I auditioned for you at Waltham. You still had the same warm and wonderful smile that I remembered. Thank you for all you taught me. I hope you know how much you, Mr. Smith (Uncle Andy} and Mr. "T" touched our lives to this day.
God bless you.
Sincerely,
. .
August 21, 2010
Frank Roberts
. .
August 21, 2010
Nancy Patterson-Crowley
August 21, 2010
Mr.Roberts, you were such an important part of our High School years! A wonderful leader who always gave us inspiration and encouragement. You will have a special place in our hearts forever.
Regina Pontes
August 21, 2010
Mr. Roberts. Upon learning of your passing "To Sir With Love" ran through my mind. You and your three associates; Mr. Smith, Mr. Thibodeau and Mr. Tassone were an inspiration to so many of us young and fresh minds. I personally know you were instrumental in teaching me to follow my dreams and to always try! I can't thank you enough. I know now the angels are taking direction from you in heaven.
This is for you Mr. Roberts. God speed and blessings you and your family!
http://tinyurl.com/22tcr3r (To Sir With Love)
Leslie Johnston
August 21, 2010
Thank you for making my years at AHS the ones in my life that I that I think of most fondly.
Valerie Pontes Coll
August 21, 2010
Everyone who had Mr. Roberts as a teacher was able to see the world as their stage. Beyond his love of language and the power of sharing it with intent, he was a wonderfully kind man who expected you to meet the very highest of standards. Without Mr. Roberts and Mr. Smith at AHS, so many of us out here would be leading lives with less discipline. Their guidance to us was to know that your very best was demanded,no matter what role you had been given. This turned out to be not just a good idea for the Globe Drama Festival, but for life. Thank you for the gift of your teaching. I am so very proud to have known you.
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