Frank J Malter

Frank J. Malter, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully in Charlotte March 16, 2025, at the age of 73. Born January 10, 1952 in New York to the late Frank and Joan Malter, Frank lived a life marked by quiet, decisive action and profound dedication to his family and community.

Frank was a devoted husband to Ruth, and a proud and loving father to Kelly Hoffman (Richard), Katie Terrance (Terry), Frankie, Patrick (Roshel), and Daniel (Linda). He was the cherished “Ice Cream Man” to his beloved grandchildren: Bella, Cecilla, Sophia, Kahlan, Bradley, Caleb, Nathaniel, Gabriel, Jacqueline, and Jacob. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his younger brother Richie. He is also survived by siblings Kevin, Martin, Bernadette, Tim, and Chris.

A graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University with a degree in Accounting, Frank’s career path diverged sharply as he answered a higher calling, a distinguished 32-year career in federal law enforcement with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), where he discovered a passion for explosives, and he served on the front lines of some of the nation’s most critical and tragic incidents.

Frank’s expertise was instrumental in investigations following the World Trade Center attacks, the Oklahoma City bombing, and the devastating events of 9/11 at the Pentagon. His contributions extended beyond individual investigations, he played a pivotal role in the development of the National Fire Investigator Handbook as well as innovations that changed law enforcement response to explosive investigations worldwide. He also led investigations for the ATF National and International Response Team, and organized event security planning for the US Winter and Summer Olympic games, Superbowls, and the G8 Conference. His profound expertise in explosives made him a highly sought-after consultant, with local, state, and federal agencies, along with private companies and foreign governments, regularly seeking his counsel.

Frank was the recipient of numerous awards, including the Medal of Valor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, and the Department of the Treasury’s highest honor, the Albert Gallatin Award. Many additional commendations and recognitions from various government agencies, private companies, and diplomatic delegations acknowledged his extraordinary contribution to the law enforcement community.

Frank was one of the lucky few who never worked a day in his life. He so loved what he did, and the teams that he worked with, that in his free time he served as a volunteer firefighter with the Fair Lawn Fire Company #4 for 13 years, and after moving to North Carolina, spent another 15 years on the Board of Directors for the Lake Rim Volunteer Fire Department. Retirement didn’t slow Frank down, he worked as a contractor to the government and volunteered with the Fayetteville Police Department, working cold cases to provide closure for families of victims of violent crimes.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, he often volunteered as a baseball or soccer coach, gave driving or swimming lessons, cooked Sunday breakfast, and camped with his family. He could often be found manning the grill at a backyard barbeque, with any number of firehouse or work guys in attendance. They were part of the family. In retirement, he and Ruth enjoyed visiting their children or traveling with cherished friends.

Frank was the man you called when the world went sideways. He was a caretaker, a problem-solver, and a beacon of unwavering support. His legacy is one of integrity, courage, and a profound commitment to the well-being of others.

A memorial service to celebrate Frank’s life and legacy will be held March 31st at 2pm at Saint Philip Neri Catholic Church in Fort Mill, SC with a reception to follow at the Tega Cay Beach Club.

Rest in peace, Frank. Your legacy of love and integrity will forever imprint our hearts.