Frank J. Gaeta

Frank J. Gaeta passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, at the age of 97.

Frank proudly served his country in the United States Navy during World War II. His military service was a lifelong source of pride and reflected the discipline, patriotism, and sense of duty that defined his character.

After returning home, Frank built a remarkable career in television with NBC where he worked for more than 40 years as a cameraman and later as a technical director. As a cameraman, he worked on The Tonight Show, numerous soap operas, and Hallmark productions. He worked alongside orchestra leader Mitch Miller and was part of the broadcast team for Super Bowl 1.

Frank later became a Technical Director for several soap operas and for Saturday Night Live. He earned an Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement as Technical Director for the Jack Lemmon: “Wonderful Marvelous Gershwin special.” His decades at NBC were marked by professionalism, skill, and a steady presence behind the scenes during some of television’s most memorable moments.

One of the most historic and sobering moments of his career occurred in 1968 at the Ambassador Hotel

kitchen as a cameraman when Robert F. Kennedy was tragically shot by Sirhan Sirhan.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Frank lived a long and meaningful life centered on family. He was married to his beloved wife, Norma, for over 62 years (passed away 3 years ago). Together they raised two sons, Frank Gaeta Jr (married to Jennifer) and Robert Gaeta (to Lisa). He was a proud grandfather of two and a cherished great-grandfather of 6.

Frank will be remembered for his strength, his humor, his dedication to his craft, and the deep love he had for his family. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of integrity, commitment, and a truly well lived life.