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Dominic Frinzi Obituary

Frinzi, Dominic H., Atty. Entered Eternal Life January 28, 2008, at the age of 86. Dear father of Joseph D., James N. and Dominic H. (Amy) Frinzi. Proud grandfather of James, Elizabeth, Jane, Anne and Benjamin. Cherished brother of Romeo (Mamie) Frinzi, Norma Angeli, the late Joseph (Dottie) and the late Gino Frinzi. Also survived by his former wife Jane, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear and special friends, especially Mark Becker. Visitation Monday, February 4, at the Funeral Home, from 4:00-8:00 PM and on Tuesday at GESU CHURCH, 1145 W. Wisconsin Ave., from 10:45-11:45AM with Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 noon. Procession to Holy Cross Cemetery for Committal Service and burial to follow. Dominic was a practicing attorney for 60 years, a court commissioner for the Honorable Bonnie Gordon, President of the Italian Community Center, President of the International Harness Horsemen's Association, was knighted a Cavaliere by the Italian government, member of the Board of Directors of the Florentine Opera Company, a 1997 inductee of the International Harness Horsemen Association Hall of Fame in Goshen, NY, past President of UNICO National, past President of the Illinois Harness Horsemen's Association, and past President of the National Italian American Bar Association. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Dominic's name may be directed to the Italian Community Center or the Florentine Opera Company. The Frinzi family extends their sincere gratitude to Dr. William Davis, the nurses at Wisconsin Heart Hospital and Wheaton Franciscan Hospice, Sr. Doris, Sandra Frinzi, Susan Maholias and Michael Sullivan, Jr., for their compassionate care and support. SCHMIDT & BARTELT GUARDALABENE & AMATO Funeral and Cremation Service 10121 W. North Ave. Wauwatosa www.schmidtandbartelt.com

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Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Dominic Frinzi

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Emmett Jordan

April 7, 2019

Emmett Jordan performs the GLORIA at Milwaukee Summerfest Nokia Stage 2008, not one of his operas though!

Lois Schmidt

February 15, 2008

I could say I did not know Mr. Frinzi very well, but that is impossible: you met him, you knew him, because he knew you and never forgot you. My first encounters with Mr. Frinzi were in the 1980's at the Milwaukee County Safety Building where I worked for many years, in particular for another grand Italian gentleman, Dr. George Palermo. Mr. Frinzi was always so kind, very gracious, and I loved his direct manner! Yet what I treasure most were the Friday evening opera lectures at the ICC which I attended with two of my sisters as often as we were able.
The exquisite music, amazing voices, his deep knowledge, his many experiences, and generous sharing of it all with such obvious joy and pride will always remain some of my most treasured memories, nor did I fail to notice the obvious pride and affection of his dear son who assisted him on those evenings with such love.

My deepest sympathy to the Frinzi family. His passing truly is the end of an era. He is irreplacable and unforgettable.

Rita Angeli

February 14, 2008

thanks uncle Dominic for sharing your rich operatic knowledge, interesting stories, and sound advice about common sense... I will miss you Rita

Gerald R. Turner

February 7, 2008

This was a great man, the answer to many who asked for his help. I was fortunate to share an office with him when I first started to practice law. He always had a quick fix to a problem that may have seemed more complicated at first. I always admired him for his direct and straight forward approach. He left a legacy for which his children can be proud. We all wish him the best for being good to all of us during his long and fortuitous career. Goodbye and love to our advocate and friend.

Steve Murphy

February 5, 2008

Dominic Frinzi's zest for life was an inspiration for me. He always greeted me with a loud "Hi, Steve!" and we spoke about classical music and opera. His presiding over the Festa Italiana opera events at the opera tent was a highlight for me every year. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered. My condolences to the Frinzi family.

Karen Boyd, CHt

February 5, 2008

Stories! Do I have stories! I worked as Dominic's secretary in the late 60s when I was a very young woman and I adopted him as my mentor - because for one, he recognized I needed raising, but secondly, his advice and mentoring was always without guile or hidden agenda, offered freely as he saw the need, with never any forethought for his own ultimate reward. And similar to the song lyrics of the times, "I knew but I could not say" - Dominic had no problem saying(!) - but somehow he was blessed in that even if what he said might cut you to the core with accuracy, he said it in a way that didn't really hurt but only made you want to do better - because his joy came from seeing you succeed! He never hesitated to enjoy the beautiful world God gave us - the first time I was introduced to him, he was "conducting" in his office - he sat behind his desk, baton in hand, waving his arms and singing along to a beautiful, powerful opera, in front of a "wall of sound" 'stereo' system - which was no small accomplishment in the 60s! - but he was ever thoughtful and never rash - and by watching him, I learned solutions through compromise and negotiation - not flying off the handle and going 180 degrees in the opposite direction - but that somewhere in the middle is reality. Of all the people who have helped guide me in my lifetime, certainly Dominic was the most influencial, and even throughout the years, he was always there, non-judgmental and supportive. And I know that now that he is on the 'other side' in the Spirit - that he is even more able to help than ever before! So I will not miss him - but I will call him and speak with him and Listen to his guidance just as I always did because, in the words of our Lord, "I Am With You Always."
Rejoice! Thy servant has returned home triumphant!

Giovanni Romanelli

February 4, 2008

Dominic was a dear friend and mentor. Never in my life has any one man made me more proud to be Italian. I will never forget the times we shared and the wise words he loaned to me as a great gift. He was a man of great accomplishments and yet never forgot anyone along his journey. He will always be in our hearts.
Giovanni Romanelli (Past President of Club Italo-Americano of Green Bay WI)

Karen Angeli

February 4, 2008

I will never forget Uncle Dom - for his energy, his spirit, his smile, his passions – opera for one. Michael and I sat with him at an ICC Opera Performance last September. We listened to the incredible performances and then to Uncle Dom’s lively and heart-felt talk about some of the composers and about the importance of supporting the Opera. This was just one evening I will never forget -- and the many other all-family-special moments too. I will miss you. Love Karen

Cameron Angeli

February 4, 2008

Uncle Dom – You were always happy and excited to see us when we made it out from LA and I always enjoyed hearing your stories. But I think the most significant thing is how much you impacted my dad. I got to know you better through him because he loved you so much. We’ll miss you. Love Cameron

Bey Angeli

February 4, 2008

My great Uncle Dominic will be in my memories.
Every time I saw him at family functions in Milwaukee, he
was always happy and always greeted me warmly. Always
interested in what I was doing with my life at the time,
Uncle Dom and I shared conversations that made me laugh
and feel closer to my family. He will be missed and remain
in my thoughts forever. Love Bey

Nicholas Lesselyoung

February 4, 2008

He was a very driven person that was able to accomplished many things during his life. He was always busy & had alot on his plate but always found time to help others. I will miss him.

Great Nephew.

Cheryl Gemignani

February 4, 2008

Dominic always brought a smile to my face and those around him. His zest for life and all things Italian was an inspiration and a reminder to us of a proud heritage. He will be missed and fondly remembered for a very long time to come.

Nina Colacino

February 4, 2008

Dear Norma,
Our sincere sympathy in your loss.
Dominic will be missed, as he was a gift to our Italian heritage.

Sincerly,

Angeline Colacino, Joe & Nina Colacino.

Fran Maglio Wallace

February 4, 2008

Dominic, I will miss you.

You had a personality that was larger than life, with a smile and a twinkle in your eye that was so engaging. I will always remember you walking into the bakery saying, "Pete, where's Pete. Hey Pete, let's go!" and off you went!

My deepest sympathy to your family. May God bless you all.

Angele Dentice Morris

February 4, 2008

To the Frinzi Family,
We will all miss Dominic and the music, smiles and knowledge he shared with us all. Whether it was in court, at Festa or at the ICC,
his love of life and song brightened our days and will be remembered forever.
Angele Dentice Morris and Hugh Morris and family

Gerald R. Turner

February 4, 2008

Dominic was kind and supportive to me in the beginning. I knew him as a gritty intuitive person who was admired and respected in many different arenas. He had a long and illustrious career. Peace and love to Dominic and his family. They should all be proud of the legacy he has established.

Insurance & Financial Services

February 4, 2008

James, Joe and family,

Our office was sad to hear of the passing of your father. Please be comforted knowing that he is in a better place. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family. From all of your friends at IFS.

Ellen Kozak

February 4, 2008

Joe and family,

I was very fond of Dom, who was always accepting of me even back in the days when a woman lawyer was a rare thing and not always admitted into "the club." We worked together in the Sports and Entertainment Section of the State Bar, where his harness racing interests added a different dimension to the definition of "sports." I always enjoyed running into him whether in the courthouse or at the Italian Community Center. I am sorry for, and share in, your loss.

Nancy J Graf

February 3, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Frank J Giuffre

February 3, 2008

Dominic has left a legacy of pride in one's Italian heritage. He will be missed greatly.

MORTON GOLLIN

February 2, 2008

to the Frinzi Family

When I practiced in Milwaukee, Dominic was a good friend. I mourn your loss

Mark Madden

February 2, 2008

Dominic Jr.and family,
My father, Judge Patrick Madden, thought a great deal of Dominic and enjoyed his great sense of life. He will be missed. All of our family sends our thoughts and prayers. Resquiat in Pace.

Most Rev. Leland J. Lannoye

February 2, 2008

I had never met Mr. Frinzi, but I remember Mrs. Frinzi and her Spanish classes when I was at South Division all those years ago. I will celebrate a Divine Liturgy for Mr. Frinzi very shortly. If Mrs. Frinzi will contact me via email and give me an address I will send the notice to her

Paula Angeli

February 2, 2008

My Uncle was a wonderful man..
I will never forgot how much he helped me and my family. and other's in need very much. Dominic and my mother where always there for each other. I will miss him very much.

Paul Polito

February 2, 2008

To the James Frinzi Family This is a very hard time for you, after the loss of your Father. We know that you have spent the last several years caring for your Dad. And for that you are Blessed!
I have many memories of your family and the time we spent with your Dad
and you can feel proud Jim for the outstanding care that you extended to your Father. You truly were a faithful Son! I am sure your Brothers are proud of the way you stepped up and took care of your Dad
threw the final years.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you Jim & Family.


Paul & Cathy Polito , Mario, Catherine, Angelina & Natalie
Cottonwood, Arizona

Trinette Hernandez

February 1, 2008

I used to work in the Courts in Waukesha back in the 80's and 90's. Atty. Frinzi was the best! He would bring us girls chocolates every time he traveled the world and he would tell me about the Trinità dei Monti in italy because my name is Trinette and he thought that was so great, especially since I am not italian. He said it was close enough with a smile. He was gracious, intelligent, thoughtful, and all around a wonderful man. I last saw him in the summer at Festa at the Opera area where he proudly showed us around and gave us opera information. He will be missed. His death is the end of an era. God Bless him and the family he leaves behind.
Trinette Hernandez
Waukesha, WI

ATTY DICK CIMPL

February 1, 2008

TO JOE AND THE FAMILY

YOUR DAD WAS KNOWN BY ME IN THE TITLE INSURANCE BUSINESS-MY SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOURS

Eric Townell

February 1, 2008

The Master Singers of Milwaukee cherish the memory of our friend and patron, Cavaliere Dominic Frinzi, an institution in Milwaukee's musical life and our host at so many Opera in the Courtyard and Festa Italiana performances. We remember his erudition in opera and his enthusiasm for music. We were honored to have him with us at our own Italian wine festival last September, where he served as Host of Honor. We loved him, we learned from him, and we treasured his support and friendship. We will dedicate our performances in summer of 2008 to Dominic's memory, with gratitude.

JOANNE VALENCIA (MILAZZO)

February 1, 2008

Somehow I felt a special link to Dominic as he grew up with my mother & her family at the Third Ward. My mother would always speak of how kind Dominic's father at the butcher shop was to the Milazzo Family when times were so hard. I'll always remember that story she would tell me, so when Dominic would come into our office I would be reminded of my mother as well. I will miss him, he surely left his mark on the world. My prayers are with you at this time of such a great loss.

Cindy, Jeri, Suzi Office of Dr. Charles Waisbren

February 1, 2008

To Dominic's Family

We're so saddened by the loss of your father, uncle, brother, friend.
We all enjoyed our visits with Dominic whenever he visited Dr. Charles Wasibren. We will miss seeing him.

Hugh McMahon

January 31, 2008

Joe and Family,

I am saddened to hear of the passing of your father. Knowing you, Joe, he must have been a wonderful dad, teacher and friend. You are the fruit of his guidance and love; and you are a teriffic man. May your dad be blessed with eternal life and may you and you family be comforted by knowing he is with his God and Savior.

niece Stephanie Angeli

January 31, 2008

Uncle Dominic helped so many people during his life. What a great man.
May he rest in peace now and sing beautiful opera songs in heaven.
Love and peace to all,
Stephanie Angeli and son Jordan

ray flowers

January 31, 2008

uncle dom,you will be missed.to the frinzi family,please accept my sympathy

Bob Dolfi

January 31, 2008

We here at the Mario Lanza legend first met Dominic last year after he invited us to be part of the Italian Festival. We became an instant bond. His love of Mario Lanza was the highlight of our stage presentations and his knowledge of opera and the voice was unsurpassed. He invited to bring us back this year but it won't be the same. He was not a tall man but he walked heads over us all. We will all miss him.

God love you Dominic and now you are with Mario Lanza where you can now hear him sing to you personally.
love,
Bob Dolfi - Marlene D'Attanasio and Damon Lanza

Michelle Millard

January 31, 2008

Twenty years ago, I worked at Marine Bank in downtown Milwaukee. I still remember Mr. Frinzi as a really great caring man. My condolences to his family.

Emily DiFrances

January 31, 2008

My condolences to Dominic's family and friends, he made my time working for Bill Russo and Joe Alioto even more memorable.

Ginni Smith

January 31, 2008

Dear Norma and all of her family,

I am sorry for your great loss.

Sincerely, Ginni

Adrienne LaRosa

January 31, 2008

A good friend of my family - Sorce & LaRosa - for many years. Blessings, always.

Salvatore DiMario

January 31, 2008

I had the pleasure to know and work with Dominic at Harness Horsemen International...... Dominic will be missed by all of his friends in the harness racing community......he touched so many people in a positive way....I am grateful that I had the great privilege to know him.....I wish to extend my condolences to his family.

Paul Polito

January 31, 2008

My Heart goes out to the James Frinzi Family. Jim is a Brother and my Best Friend let me tell you this he was the Best man at my wedding and God Father to my Children. What a Loyal Son, he took great care of his Father over the last several years. Jim met all of his needs giving up the past Two Years to help his Father threw some very hard times, any one who has dealt with a dying loved one knows how hard this can be. If not for Jim I tell you this from my heart Dominic would have not lasted the past two years the Italian Knight in Shinning Armour needs to bestowed on Jim Frinzi for the outstanding Loyal and courageous accomplishments that Any Son would admire and be grateful of such a wonderful person. I am sure the others that were paid did there medical best For Dominic. Dr. William Davis was very outstanding guiding Jim and Dominick threw the daily routine where He was like a family member that really cared and was sincere about both of them . It was a very noble choice to work his job's and take care of his Dad.
The hours of sacrifice that not many would go threw, when I think of God's Commandment Honor your Father and Mother! Jim has done ordinary things in an extraordinary way. May God Speed Dominic, and continue to shed light on James Frinzi who has been a great Son! Families come together at this sacred time and now would be a great time to Honor your family and just count your blessings. Your Dad will be Missed!
We Are having Italian Mass Said for Him this Month.
My Deepest Sympaty

Paul Polito

Dean Zemel

January 31, 2008

Dominic was a good man and lawyer with much compassion for so many people and things. He will be missed. He left many legacies behind but the greatest legacy he left for me was my good friend, Joe Frinzi. Thank you Dominic.

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