Francis M. “Frank” Missurelli
June 1, 1930 -
January 8, 2017
US Veteran
Francis M. “Frank” Missurelli, age 86, of Kenosha, passed away on Sunday, January 8, 2017, at United Hospital Systems - St. Catherine’s Campus.
Born in Racine on June 1, 1930, he was the son of John and Giovanna (DeFazio) Missurelli. After his mother passed away on his first birthday, Frank went to live with his aunt and uncle, Michelangela and Giacinto Falduto, in Kenosha. He remained with them throughout his childhood, but stayed very close to his father and older siblings, spending weekends and summers in Racine. He graduated from the old Kenosha High School and soon after began his career with the Kenosha News, a company he never left.
Frank joined the U. S. Army, enlisting through Fort Sheridan in August of 1951. He was stationed in Germany and honorably discharged in August of 1953.
On February 27, 1954, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Gina Martino. They were blessed with three children and nearly 63 years of marriage.
Frank had a long career with the Kenosha News, retiring as its Director of Advertising in 2000, but continuing as the publisher of the Zion-Benton News until his full retirement on December 31, 2015.
He was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith, praying regularly to his patron saint, St. Francis of Assisi. He was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, and a member and past trustee of St. James Catholic Church, regularly attending their evening services across the street from the News. Frank gave of his time selflessly, serving as a board member of the Goodfellows (Kenosha Christmas Charities, Inc.), an active member of the Serra and Italian-American Clubs, a board member of the Cancer Treatment Centers of America for the past several years, and a member of the Humanities Board at Carthage College. He was a past president of the Mississippi Valley Classified Managers Association, and the Wisconsin Newspaper Advertising Executive Association. He always found time to enjoy a round of golf, but what he cherished most was his time with his family.
He will be deeply missed by his wife, Gina, their three children, Clare (Leonard) Hartnell, Mark (Katherine) Missurelli and Jane (Michael) McTernan, and six grandchildren, Nicholas (Alessandra) Hartnell, Lucy Hartnell, Louis, Maria and Joseph Missurelli, and John Michael McTernan. Frank is further survived by his brother, Russell Missureli, other relatives, extended family members, and many, many friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Jennie Missurelli and Nellie Romano and three brothers, Peter, Samuel and Joseph Missurelli.
Service Info
Funeral services honoring Frank’s life will be held on Friday, January 13, 2017. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1300-73rd Street. Private inurnment will be held in Holy Cross Cemetery in Racine, at a later date.
Posted by:
Mary Peterman BraggHello Gina, Clare, Marc and Jane - How sad I am to hear that a part of my dear extended family is gone. Frank was a wonderful man and your family has always been special to me, having spent many wonderful hours with you all as your sitter and friend. I have so many fond memories of our times together, and feel fortunate to have known Frank. I will be thinking of you and include you in my prayers. May God be with you and may His loving strength sustain you during this difficult time. Mary
Posted by:
Joe and Pat FaldutoDear Gina and Family, Our love and prayers are with all of you now as you travel on your difficult journey forward. Frank was a very special person and we are so happy you have such special memories in your heart. God Bless you all.
Posted by:
SAM & CECELIA PERRIWE ARE VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF FRANK PASSING.
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Jasper G (Jay) LoCicero JrMy thoughts and prayers are with Frank's family at this most difficult of times.
Posted by:
Sylvia Fonte McGrealThank you Mr. Missurelli for giving this DECA student from Bradford the opportunity to learn about advertising first hand all those years ago. I shall always treasure our yearly check-ins at the Mt. Carmel Festival. Your smile, laugh, and hugs are forever etched in my memory. To the Missurelli family...my heartfelt condolences. We were all blessed by his beautiful soul and will continue to be guided by his example.
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Natalie (Falbo) LatinoGina, Clare, Mark and Jane. I am sorry for your loss. I have so many wonderful childhood memories that include your family. There was always a friendly bet or competition which made family get togethers fun. Cherish all your memories.
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Ed and Edna GambardellaGina and family - Edna and I will be praying for you and your family to get through this time with the peace that comes from the knowledge that God loves you and that he will take care of all you. Frank was very kind to Edna and myself and was a wonderful friend in the short time we knew him. Gina may the peace of the lord be with and your family for now and for ever.
Posted by:
Curt PruittFrank was a blessing to everyone he met. Warm greeting, warm eyes, warm handshake & a hand around your shoulder... Gina & family, I'm glad God lent him to all of us these many years and I'm sure you have wonderful memories to carry on his legacy of decency & kindness. Frank Missurelli - An Uncommon Man
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Mark Thomas OnoskoMy thoughts and prayers are with Frank's family at this most difficult of times. Frank and Howard were both very dear friends and mentors that helped to shape my career in the media. I learned of his passing this morning on my way back to Florida.
Posted by:
Genelle MissurelliI was honored to know Frank. He was my husband's Paul's Uncle. He was a true gentlemen, great husband, father, and grandfather. I appreciated his warm personality and how much he welcomed me into the Missurelli family! I will keep Gina, and his family in my prayers! May he rest in peace. With our Deepest Sympathy, Genelle, Paul, and Nicholas Missurelli
Posted by:
Bill AlthausFrank Missurelli was a great mentor to me- his dedication to the community; his work ethic and his energy were remarkable!
