Frank Robert Cardarelle

Frank Robert Cardarelle, a lifelong resident of Edina, Minnesota, and a cornerstone of the community's development and civic life, passed away peacefully at the age of 93. His life was a testament to his family, service, stewardship, and a deep-rooted love for the city his family has helped shape for over a century.
Born and raised in Edina, Frank's family legacy in the area began in 1874 with the arrival of his great-grandparents, Joseph & Elizabeth Roberts, who became founders of Edina when they and other farmers seceded from Richfield. Frank's grandfather served on Edina's first school board, and Frank proudly graduated in the inaugural class of Edina High School in 1951. From a young age, he worked alongside his father, John Cardarelle, in land surveying, laying the groundwork for a career that would leave a lasting imprint on the region.
Frank's proudest legacy is his family. Frank shared 65 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lois Cardarelle. Together, they raised their family near the original family homestead. In a fitting tribute to their partnership, the Edina street "Lois Lane" is named in her honor-Frank's favorite collaborator in life.
The Cardarelle house was a bustling hub of activity for decades. With three busy children, the house was never still, and with large extended families, Frank and Lois' home served as frequent host for family reunions and community gatherings.
Frank threw himself into being a grandfather, supporting each of his grandchildren from childhood to busy adult lives. He delighted in taking them fishing, hearing about their adventures, and enjoying the warmth of the family table for Sunday dinners.
Frank founded Cardarelle & Associates, a land development firm instrumental in the growth of Edina and neighboring Eden Prairie. During a time of rapid expansion, he described the pace as "platting as fast as we could," a reflection of both the demand and his tireless work ethic. Frank served as the president of Minnesota Land Surveyor's Association in 1968. Frank's industriousness continued to the end as he led the business into his 90s and even when he did retire at 90, he never stopped pointing out the various homes he surveyed over the years while driving in the car with his loved ones.
Beyond his professional achievements, Frank was a devoted civic leader. He joined the Edina Rotary Club in 1957 and served as its president from 1969 to 1970, leading the honor of having Vice President Humphrey speak to the club. He played a key role in founding the Edina Historical Society and was a driving force behind the city's Fourth of July parades and the Edina Veterans Memorial. His contributions were recognized during the Rotary Club's 60th anniversary, where he was honored as one of its longest-serving members.
Frank's legacy lives on in the neighborhoods he helped build, the institutions he supported, and the countless lives he touched through his quiet leadership and unwavering dedication to community.
He was preceded death by his parents, John and Genevieve, and siblings John, Esther, Bill and Jim.
He is survived by his loving wife Lois, their children John (Liz), Amy, and Julie (Matt) Buxton, and grandchildren, Jessica, Nick, Hannah, Maddie, Chaz and Tyson, his siblings Don and Ruth (Waldo) Anderson, many nieces, nephews and extended family, and a city that will forever bear the mark of his vision and care.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to: Edina Historical Society, Edina Rotary Foundation, Minnesota Society of Professional Surveyors (formerly Minnesota Land Surveyor's Association), and the Minnesota Humane Society.
The Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 12th from 4-6 pm at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel at 5000 West 50th Street & Highway 100.
The Memorial Service will be held Thursday, November 13th from 4-5 pm at Normandale Lutheran Church, 6100 Normandale Road, Edina, MN, 55436. www.Washburn-McReavy.com
Edina Chapel 952-920-3996