Frank Olivieri Sr.

Frank P. Olivieri, longtime owner and steward of Pat’s King of Steaks, passed away on January 18, 2026, at the age of 87. He was the devoted husband of Ritamarie (née Carrero) for 65 loving years and the son of the late Harry and Anna Olivieri.

Frank was the beloved father of Danielle Olivieri (Jerry Travaglia), Frank E. Olivieri (Nancy), and Leah Tartaglia (Joseph Marandola). He was a loving grandfather to Julian Travaglia; Jade (Emilian) DelGiorno; Nicolette and Blake Olivieri; Vienna (Patrick) O’Brian; Joseph (Jessica ) Tartaglia; Francesco Tartaglia, Haillie Marandola and Stephanie Marandola. He was the cherished great-grandfather of Verona, Bray, and Luna Rose O’Brian. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing on Friday, January 23rd, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at Baldi Funeral Home, 1327–29 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA (ample off-street parking available). A prayer service and memorial tributes will begin promptly at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made in Frank’s name and memory to St. Maron Church, 1010 Ellsworth Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147.

Frank was a central figure in continuing the tradition begun by his uncle, Pat Olivieri, and his father, Harry Olivieri, who opened Pat’s in 1930 and introduced the world to what became known as the Philadelphia cheesesteak. Under Frank’s leadership, Pat’s grew from a beloved neighborhood institution into an internationally recognized landmark—synonymous with South Philadelphia—and was visited by generations of locals, tourists, celebrities, athletes, and public figures from around the world.

More than a businessman, Frank was a guardian of tradition. He remained deeply committed to preserving the authenticity, simplicity, and quality that made Pat’s famous, never losing sight of its roots as a working-class, family-run operation serving the community day and night. His dedication helped ensure that Pat’s remained open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, becoming not just a restaurant but a rite of passage for Philadelphians and visitors alike.

Frank took great pride in his South Philadelphia heritage and the role Pat’s played in the life of the city. Over the decades, the restaurant became a backdrop for countless memories—late-night meals, family traditions, celebrations, and first visits to Philadelphia. Through it all, Frank was known for his strong work ethic, hands-on involvement, and quiet pride in carrying forward a name that meant so much to the city.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his influence lives on through his family, through his son Frank E. Olivieri who continues the business today at the corner of 9th Street and Passyunk Avenue, and through the enduring reputation of Pat’s King of Steaks as a symbol of Philadelphia itself.