Frank Branco
March 09, 2014
Frank “Papa” “Cheech” Joseph Branco (85) of Des Moines, Iowa, died March 9, 2014, peacefully at home with his loving family by his side.
Frank was born in Des Moines, Iowa to Joseph and Anna on October 3, 1928. He went to school at Park Avenue Grade School and Lincoln High School. Frank faithfully served our country in the United States Marine Corp. He was most known for his warmth and sense of humor. Frank married Betty Lou Green on October 9, 1949. He worked for John Deere for several years before starting his own home improvement business and became the best in the business. In his free time he enjoyed being the first to ‘PRESS’ while golfing and always catching the biggest fish on our trips. He enjoyed our annual pilgrimage to Notre Dame to see touchdown Jesus. Frank loved
playing cards in the old principal's office with his friends at the Italian
American Club and most of all spending time with his beautiful family.
In his 64 years of marriage to his beautiful wife Betty Lou, they had five children, Mike (Patti), Joe (Jen), Marcia (Pete), Deb (John), and Frankie II. He had 12 grandchildren, Christy (Erich), Mary Michael, Joe II, Katie, Frank (Michelle), Kelli, Melissa (Barima), Anthony, John, Anna, Claire, and Kathleen (David); five great grandchildren, Parker, Drue, Clover, Madison and Melissa (with 2 more in the oven!). He is also survived by his sister, Theresa Sbrocco.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Anna, his sisters, Sara, Mary, and Anna; and grandson Anthony.
The visitation will be held at Hamilton’s South Funeral Home on March 12, 2014 from 4-8 p.m. Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anthony’s Church on Thursday, March 13, 2014, at 11:00 AM. The entombment will follow immediately after funeral at Resthaven.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Papa’s favorite charity (www.stjude.org).
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Jack Nichols
03/28/2016
Frank I didn't know you left. You are a beautiful man that taught me a great deal about life, how to sell siding, How to treat people, how to enjoy life. I loved your family especially Mike. I know you are with Jesus because you talked about him allot.
Maria Bennett
03/11/2014
Papa Frank - what a wonderful man! My heart is with the entire family and my dear friend Frankie Jr. during this time of earthly loss. But, stay strong we will all be reunited in Heaven someday!
Chuck and Joy Coppola
03/11/2014
Your beloved Frank has been a cherished mainstay in my life. Frank has always been a member of our extended family and me for over 40 years. I will truly miss seeing him at the golf course and all family gatherings together with the center of his life Betty Lou and all of his children and their families. Fly high Frankie B and say hi to all our friends and family as you certainly go where Jesus went before you to prepare your well earned place. We love you. Chuck and Joy.
Nancy Freylack
03/11/2014
I will forever remember Franks never ending smile.
If he taught a class in how to approach life....the world would be a better place.
His life was as good as it gets from my perspective. A good wife helps a great deal! Be well Betty !! Lv, Nan
Larry Loffredo & Sons
03/10/2014
So sad to see you go, but knowing you are at peace and with your family in heaven brings comfort to us here on earth. Uncle Frank, I miss you so dearly and reminisce of all the good times we had through the years. Whenever I looked at you you were such a strong person with a smile that was everlasting. I love you and wish you eternal peace. Love always, your nephew Larry.
Larry and Alice Woods
03/10/2014
Betty Lou and family, Larry and I send our sincere condolence to you all. Their are no words we can say to ease your pain. Please know your in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you all. Larry and Alice
Jim Loffredo
03/10/2014
To my great uncle whom I will always cherish the time and memories I spent with him, especially the golf course, may he rest in peace and enjoy the harassment he's probably getting from his sisters, love you uncle, you will be missed
John Loffredo
03/10/2014
To you Uncle Frank, you were a wonderful person, always with a smile on your face and a laugh to follow, I'm sorry you had to leave us, but you led a wonderful life, beautiful family and all your napes, that's me.God bless and have a wonderful time with Sara, see what she's up too.Thoughts and prayers. love John
P.S. you might want to see what Gene is doing also