Frank Morano Sr.
March 30, 1952 — December 19, 2024
Frank Louis Morano Sr., 72, passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family on December 19, 2024.
Frank was born March 30, 1952 to Alphonso and Minnie (Serra) Morano in Des Moines, Iowa. He was a 1970 graduate of Dowling High School. Frank retired from John Deere after 30 years of service. He was a member of Local Union #450 and Christ the King Catholic Church. Frank enjoyed playing cards, cooking, teaching his kids and grandkids the art of Italian cookie making, and of course a good meal. He doted on his grandkids and great-grandkids, especially when sharing a meal with them. He was a planner, an (over) thinker and he had a generous heart.
His family will remember his laugh, watching him sing and rock in his chair, his TV shows, his homemade bread, soups & pasta, his garage, his pantry full of canned goods, his ability to help with anything they needed, and his love of a nice cold Diet Pepsi.
Frank is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sue Morano; children, Frank (Lorna) Morano Jr., Stefanie (Jeremy) Wells, Anthony Morano and Gina Morano; sisters, Mary Louise Cataldo and Anna Calisesi; brothers, Alphonso (Kim) Morano and Jim (Sherri) Morano; grandchildren, Ashley (Billy) Steffens, Amanda (TJ) Tracy, Jordan Wells, Austin Wells, Zoey Morano and Gia Morano; great-grandchildren, Jayden Grimes, Jordan Grimes, Jazmine Grimes, Jazlynn Steffens, Malani Tracy, Maslynn Tracy, Maslee Tracy and Maleia Tracy; and a host of extended family and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Donna Frowick; and his brothers-in-law, William Frowick, Bill Calisesi and JoJo Cataldo.
Visitation will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the Rosary prayed at 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th St, Des Moines. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, December 31st at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 5711 SW 9th St, Des Moines. Frank will be laid to rest at Glendale Cemetery, 4909 University Ave, Des Moines. The family would like to invite everyone to join them for a Celebration of Life Reception at Christ the King following the burial. For those unable to attend the funeral, the family invites everyone to join them virtually through the link on his obituary found on Hamilton’s website.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for a charity they will designate at a later date.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com
Angela Leonetti
01/07/2025
Frank/Tony and family. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all.
Pamela Smith Faleti
12/31/2024
Dear Morano Family!
Emma Smith & Family are sending our prayers and hugs from Chicago, IL. Frank was an amazing Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Friend. The entire family is so very sweet. We are so sorry for your loss. May the peace of God hold you all in the palm of His hand and give you comfort and lasting memories.
Continuous prayers 🙏🏾
Deborah A Wainwright
12/31/2024
I have known Frank all my life. We went to St. Anthony's together. He was truly a special person. I will miss his smile, kindness and generosity. God bless his family.in this difficult time.
Rob and Coleen Swisher
12/30/2024
Dear Morano Family:
Our heartfelt condolences to your family. Love is eternal. May Frank’s legacy of love continue on thru each of you.
May eternal rest grant unto Frank oh Lord and may perpetual light shine upon him.
May his soul and the souls of the faithfully departed thru the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen
Sincerely ,
The Swishers
Kristen Carroll
12/29/2024
I’m deeply sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. My heart goes out to Gina and the family during this incredibly difficult time. Frank was always kind and made me feel welcome in their home. He was a great role model, had a giving heart, and provided unconditional love and support to his family. Sending love and strength to everyone whose life he touched. Best regards and love, Kristen C.
Angela McCarthy
12/27/2024
Sue I’m so sorry to hear about Frank. He will be missed. It was always my pleasure to valet you both for his appointments.
-Angie
Karen Clayton
12/23/2024
So sorry to learn of Frank’s passing. I have so many memories of him in our younger years. Loved his lively spirit, singing Italian songs in the car. His laugh and fun spirit! He was always a good time and never short on words. Thinking of you Sue. You are blessed by the wonderful family you two created.
Linda Rivas
12/21/2024
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. He will definitely be missed.
Melissa Stewart
12/21/2024
I worked with frank at Keck he was always willing to go the extra mile for anyone in need ! He was a great guy !! So sorry for your loss!
Charm Fitzner
12/21/2024
Sue and family Frank was an Amazing person he will be truly missed.. prayers for all of you ..
Madelyn Tursi
12/21/2024
Sue and family,
I was saddened to hear that Frank lost his battle with cancer. Frank and I go back to 7th grade at St Anthony's school. Wishing you peace and sending sympathy.
Jim Kerr
12/20/2024
I knew from John Deere. What a great guy. RIP.