Mr. Franco Gianni

Franco Gianni, age 88. Beloved husband of Rosa Crudele; Loving father of Paul (Nancy) and the late Giovanna Rago-Gianni; Cherished Nonno of Luciana, Rino (Lisa), Romina, Franco, Isabella and Giuliana; Great Nonno of Domenico; Dear brother of the late Antonio, the late Pasqual (Rosa), the late Michelina (the late Ernesto) DiPace and the late Domenico (Maria); Fond uncle of many. Franco Gianni married Rosa Crudele in 1965. Through their 58 years of marriage, they had 2 beautiful children, 6 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Franco was born in Palermo Italy. He was 10 years old when he came to America. His family settled in Chicago where he stayed for 38 years and then headed south to Florida for 38 years, leaving behind wonderful friends, family and cherished memories. He enlisted in the Army and served out of Fort Benning, Georgia. This is where he learned and honed his skills in woodworking and cabinet making. Franco and his brothers epitomized the American dream. He emigrated from Sicily in 1946 with his mother through Ellis Island and settled in Chicago. Over the next 40 years, he and his brothers successfully turned a little corner furniture shop, making dinette sets for fellow neighbors, into a nationwide manufacturer of high-end office furniture for corporate America. His old-world passion and dedication were unwavering. His love and commitment to tradition and Italian culture was not only seen in his business affairs, but integral in his everyday life with family and friends. Frank touched every person he met. A simple hello turned into a history lesson of tradition and Italian influence. If a stranger would ask for the time, he would explain to them how the clock was made by an Italian. Anything and everything good (food, fashion, culture and industry) were all due to Italian influence and ingenuity. To Frank, all roads truly led to and from Rome. His motto: Italy made everything and is responsible for all of life’s treasures. His sense of humor was contagious, especially his many colloquialisms like “Fa-ck-aldo” (it’s too hot) to “a hum believable” to “fuority too” [42] (get out). His silliness will be missed. So, to all I say, “Hey you, common, pick up a card!” Let’s play and remember a legend. Love you a pound and a half! Visitation: Sunday July 21, 2024, from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Morizzo Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2550 Hassell Road, (Northeast corner at Barrington Road), Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60169. Chapel service will be at 7:00 P.M. For further information please contact Morizzo Funeral Directors at 847-752-6444

Mr. Franco Gianni

March 2, 1936 - July 18, 2024