Heartwarming Tributes from Dolores and Frank Catania to Son Frankie Will Bring You to Tears: ‘Endlessly Proud’

Frankie Catania has turned 26! To celebrate, his parents, Dolores Catania and her ex-husband Frank Catania, took to Instagram on October 8 to share heartfelt tributes and photos of their youngest child in honor of his special day.

Dolores, a cast member of The Real Housewives of New Jersey (RHONJ), who also shares 29-year-old daughter Gabby Catania with Frank, was the first to post a birthday message for Frankie. She shared two photos: one recent and another of her holding baby Frankie. In the caption, Dolores reflected on how she still sees her son as that little boy, no matter how much time has passed.

“When you swipe to the next picture, it’s so funny — no matter how big you are or how old you are I always look at you as the little boy I can still pick up,” she wrote. “Every year, I’m amazed by the wonderful person you’re becoming. From your first steps to your milestones you’ve reached this past year, watching you grow has been one of my greatest joys.”

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She continued with more heartfelt words: “I am endlessly proud of your achievements, big and small (there are no small ones actually), and I’ll always be here cheering you on. May this year be filled with success, love, and endless opportunities. Cheers to my forever ‘little Frankie’ I love you!!”

Several of Dolores’ RHONJ co-stars added their own birthday wishes in the comments. Teresa Giudice wrote, “Happy birthday [Frankie], wishing you all the best.” Melissa Gorga added, “Happy birthday, Frankie! You have always been the most beautiful person!”

Frank Catania also joined in the celebrations with his own Instagram post, sharing a series of photos of Frankie from over the years. He expressed his deep pride in his son, reflecting on how Frankie has become an “amazing, caring, and humble young man” with an admirable work ethic.

“He has become an amazing, caring, and humble young man and has a work ethic I could only wish for,” Frank wrote. “I am lucky enough to have a [son] who is a man that I aspire to be. I could not be more proud as a father than I am of my incredible children. You have made my life far beyond what I could have ever asked for, and I thank you for that.”

Frankie, clearly touched by his father’s words, replied in the comments, writing, “Thank you so much Dad. I love you, you are the best.”

Frank also shared a few special memories on his Instagram Story, posting three photos of him and Frankie through the years. Whether they were sharing smiles or serious moments, the love between father and son shone through.

What Does Frankie Catania Do for a Living?

During Season 13, Episode 14 of RHONJ, Frankie revealed that he had landed his “dream job.” However, he didn’t go into detail about his new position.

“I’m going to be starting a new position soon,” he shared during the episode, expressing his excitement without providing specifics. Frank, proud of his son’s accomplishments, commented, “Nobody is more prepared than you.”

Where Does Frankie Catania Live?

In Season 14, Episode 5 of RHONJ, Frankie shared that he was considering a move out of Dolores’ family home, where he currently lives with his sister Gabby and their six dogs. Although Gabby loves their current living arrangement, Frankie mentioned that he has other plans.

“I love our setup. I just feel, you know, within the next year or two, I’m gonna have to look at moving out, moving closer to the city,” he admitted, referring to New York City.

The birthday celebrations highlighted the strong bonds within the Catania family, as they marked another year of watching Frankie grow into the person he is today. It’s clear that both Dolores and Frank couldn’t be prouder of their son, and their messages were a touching testament to the love they share.