Michael Marasco Sr.

Michael Anthony Marasco, Sr., passed away peacefully on March 20, 2024 at his home in Plano, TX at the age of 96.

Michael was born July 19, 1927, in Des Moines, Iowa to Joseph and Margaret Marie (Scalise) Marasco. He joined the Navy in July of 1944 and served as a Seabee, primarily in Okinawa, until his discharge in June of 1946. Mike had an entrepreneurial spirit with endeavors in baking, mining, night club ownership, holding a patent on a steel stud machine for commercial construction, and sales. He was a salesman at the core and after traveling the United States selling various product door-to-door, he eventually landed in real estate sales and investments for most of his career. Mike enjoyed dancing, traveling, card games with friends and family, hosting parties, and the occasional Vegas-style splurge at the craps table and slots. He also enjoyed meeting new people, meaningful discussions, and you could always count on him asking at least one question to which you would not have a response.

He is survived by his children from his first marriage, Joanne Marasco Hunter, Michael (Debra) Marasco, Jr., James (Wendy) Marasco, and Christopher (Stephanie) Marasco; his children from his second marriage, Joseph Marasco and Michelle (Lance) Wetsel; thirteen grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; as well as a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; second wife, Kathryn Marasco; first wife, Anna Adams; sisters, Kathryn (Joseph) Cortese, Margaret Ann (Lee) Shipley, and Francine (Everett) Oatts; grandchildren, John Marasco and Andrew Marasco.

The family will greet friends at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315 on Sunday, April 21st, 2024, from 3 pm to 7 pm with prayer service at 5:30 pm.

Michael will be laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, 34024 Veterans Memorial Dr, Adel, IA 50003 on Monday, April 22nd, 2024, at 11:00 am.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Hope Health Care in the loving memory of Michael.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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