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Gaffney Funeral Home

1002 S. Yakima Ave.

Tacoma, Washington

FRANK MORRONE Obituary

Frank Anthony Morrone 2/17/1921 - 5/12/2013 Frank was born in Carbonado, WA to Italian immigrant parents, Pietro and Filopena (Pupo) Morrone, who both preceded him in death. He came to Tacoma as a toddler, where he spent his entire life, except for a two-year stint in the US Navy in WWII. He was one of six brothers, Michael, John, Ernest, Anthony and his twin brother Bert, who all preceded him in death. He was well-known in Tacoma for his sewer and drain business that he started after retiring from the City of Tacoma. He played baseball and umpired for years and had been inducted into the Hall of Fame. He worked for over 50 years at the Puyallup Fair. Frank had great leadership abilities and held several offices in his lodges, including Christopher Columbus, AMVETS, Elks, Sons of Italy, and American Legion. Frank never knew a stranger, he was a happy-go-lucky guy, and he lived a good life. His favorite events were parties he held in his basement for family and friends. He enjoyed RV trips to Leavenworth, Ocean Shores, and various other places. He is survived by his daughter Debra Vondettii (Roger), his wife of almost 31 years, Marilyn, and her children, who he treated as his own, 15 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and pet dog Petra, the love of his life. We would like to thank his nephew, Tim Morrone (Lori), who was like a son and who was there for Frank every step of the way. Also, but not least, many thanks to Manor Care Nursing Home, who gave Frank excellent and loving care. A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 31, 2013 at 10:30am at St. Rita's Catholic Church with reception to follow. Inurnment at Tahoma National Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003. A Life Celebration® Home.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on May 19, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for FRANK MORRONE

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6 Entries

May 29, 2013

Dear Marilyn,

What wonderful memories we have of our stays on Hassalo. Frank was always running around in his dark blue plumbing "suit" and heavy duty boots tending to anything that needed fixing. While his driving skills were rather frightening, he tackled everything with a "can-do" attitude and was always friendly and willing to help everyone. He reminded me of Dad (Uncle Don) in how he was able to fix things with what he had on hand - rusty nails were never discarded if they were reasonably straight. My folks thought the world of him and were so pleased when you and he were married. While these last few years have not been easy, you were always there for each other and we are so lucky to have you both part of our family. We will miss him.

Love, Sharon & Bob (Schermerhorn)

Tracy Maxi

May 26, 2013

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. My grandpa was the 'other' Frank (DeRosa) and we were always sure to get a visit in when we came in from out of town. Those were two awesome Franks! May the memories of Frank carry you through this difficult time. My sincerest condolences.

Tracy Maxi
(daughter of Rosemary and Ken Duncan; granddaughter of Nano and Frank DeRosa)

Frank Fohn

May 22, 2013

Frank was the "handyman" when I started with the City's Sewer Maintenance Section in 1975. He called me "Frankie-Boy" My name is Frank, as well. He was a very nice man with an outrageous sense of humor. He seemed to do what he wanted...I was never sure what that was. All I knew was
if I needed something, he could get it. He sponsered me and few others into the Eagles club. What a night that was! Most of us had to work the next day! Frank had an unusual laugh. His laugh alone could make a person laugh. All I can say now, we have lost another Legacy and we have crossed another milestone. God Bless you, Frank

Janet Giere

May 19, 2013

So sorry to hear about Frank. My thoughts are with u and the family.

May 19, 2013

I'm so sad to now learn about Frank. He was a fine happy and loving man. He work along side of my dad at the city sewer dept. In fact right now I am looking at his senior class picture of Lincoln High school as my parents went to school with him. As I hired on the city sewer crew I had been in Franks basement.He always called me Genie as my name is Gene. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family. God Bless.

May 19, 2013

Thank YOU for your service and for keeping our Country free. Wish we had other individuals who loved and cared enough for our Country to serve to keep our FREEDOM!!!

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Gaffney Funeral Home

1002 S. Yakima Ave., Tacoma, WA 98405

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