Arthur Joseph Fontana
April 07, 2010
Arthur Joseph Fontana, 94, died Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at his home in Des Moines. He was born August 14, 1915 in Fort Des Moines, Iowa to Maria and Alessio Fontana.
He enjoyed dancing, music, golfing, telling stories, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Arthur was very proud of his Italian Heritage and served in the Army until his honorable discharge.
Arthur is survived by his wife, Marie whom he loved and adored for 64 years; his children, Sheri (Bud) Runyon, Vicki (Ron) May, Connie Bowman, Rick (Laurie) Fontana, Mike (Rhonda Perry) Fontana; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and eight step-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Angelina Speakman; brother, Rico; and sister, Buelah Sandquist.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 10, 2010 at All Saints Catholic Church, 650 NE 52nd Ave, Des Moines, with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Pleasant Hill. A visitation with the family present from 5-7 p.m., with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m., Friday, April 9, 2010 at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave, Des Moines.
Memorial contributions may be made to All Saints Catholic Church or to the VFW Hall in loving memory of Arthur.
Online condolences to:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Kathi Ball Lashley
04/09/2010
Uncle Joe,
You have always been one of my favorite uncles. You had the best smile and greeted everyone with a kiss. I enjoyed going with my Dad and visiting you and Aunt Marie.
My deepest sympathies to all the family.
Love, Kathi Ball Lashley
Randi Kay Baber
04/09/2010
Uncle Joe,
You always greeted me with that great smile and a hug and a kiss. You had a zest for life and loved to dance. I always enjoyed your stories. I will miss you.
Love, Randi Kay Ball Baber
Maureen Ball Vaughn
04/09/2010
I can picture Uncle Joe gracefully dancing with the angels, and lovingly looking down upon all those he loved. His passion for life has always been such an inspiration. I'm sure he'll meet with my parents in heaven, and have many a good laugh about life's pleasures.
My love to you all,
Maureen Ball Vaughn
Pam Van Deest
04/08/2010
My deepest sympathy on your loss. Joe was a great neighbor and I enjoyed his stories about the neighborhood. I know my Dad enjoyed visiting with him. Seeing him sitting in the swing by the back-door was my welcome home during the summer. He will be missed.
George Hendrickson
04/08/2010
I was saddened to see Arthurs obituary this morning. I remember spending time talking with him as I delivered the mail to him. We used to give the politicians hell in some our conversations. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I have so many good memories of the many people I served while being a mailman and Arthur is one of them.
George Hendrickson
Chester "Mike" Rice
04/08/2010
I was very saddened and sorry to hear of Uncle Joe's passing. I will have many good memories of my conversations and time spent with him. He was such a happy person. He always had a smile on his face.
I offer you my condolences,sympathy and prayers during your most difficult times.
Sincerly,
Chester "Mike" Rice