Francis A. Mercante, Jr.

Frank A. Mercante, Jr., 82, of Pike Creek, Wilmington, Delaware passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Frank was a native of Wilmington, the son of the late Frank, Sr. and Rose (Parisi) Mercante.  He attended Goldey-Beacom College after graduating from Salesianum School, and in 1961 assisted his parents in the renovation and founding of the Del Rose Cafe in Wilmington, where he remained active on a part-time basis for the next 30 years.  Frank was employed full-time with the NVF Company in Yorklyn, Delaware as Credit/Collection Manager and retired after 38 years of service.

A lifelong member of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Wilmington, Frank participated in numerous committees, organizations and activities up to the time of his death, including as a Eucharistic Minister and member of the Chancel Choir, among others.  Frank was a loving husband, father and grandfather, spending most of his spare time cheering on the activities of his children and grandchildren, as well as assisting anyone who needed a helping hand.

Frank is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Pege (Carr) Mercante; his daughter, Danielle Mercante; his son, Gus Mercante (Justin Bartels); and his grandchildren, Abigail and Benjamin Hunter.  

In addition to his parents, Frank was sadly predeceased by his son, Francis Mercante, III.

Family and friends are invited to visit at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 9th & DuPont Streets, Wilmington on Tuesday, February 3 from 9:00 - 10:45AM.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00AM, followed by interment at Cathedral Cemetery, 2400 Lancaster Avenue, Wilmington.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Frank may be made to the Little Sisters of the Poor (Jeanne Jugan Residence), 185 Salem Church Road, Newark, Delaware 19713.