Frank P. Alioto (Thumbs)

Frank found peace February 9, 2024. He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Gerry, (nee Orzechowski) and survived by his four boys, Frank (Rachelle), Rick (Kari), Bob (Teresa), and John. Frank was much loved by his six grandchildren, Sam, Anthony (Lauren), Marley, Ally, Nicholas, and Mason.

Frank was a life-long Milwaukeean. He was 10 years old when he met Gerry, his future wife, when they dwelled in the same duplex on Humboldt Ave. just north of Brady Street. Legend has it their first meeting was punctuated by a swift kick to the shin by 5-year-old Gerry. It was apparently love at first kick!

Much of his childhood was spent enjoying sports and games at Pulaski and Cass St. playgrounds, with a stop at the Schowalter pharmacy's soda fountain, or a movie at the Astor Theater in between. In an "ethnic" neighborhood where nicknames prevailed, Frank soon earned the moniker "Thumbs" for his enormous appendages!

Frank attended St. Rita's Church and School, followed by Boy's Tech, where he acquired various handy-man skills. It was in this period of his life that Frank's patient, selfless, and caring nature became apparent as he tended to his long ailing mother who passed away when he was 14.

Frank and Gerry were married at St. Hedwig's Church in 1961, and as their family grew, they migrated to Milwaukee's Bay View neighborhood in 1968. Always a hard worker, Frank served as a routeman and serviceman for various vending companies. He further provided for his family by using his handyman skills in a multitude of part-time jobs. It turns out Frank wasn't all thumbs!

As industrious as Frank was, he somehow found a way to coach and cheer for what must have been hundreds of the boys' games and activities. His sport and event attendance never waned. He celebrated every one of his grandkids' milestones and rarely missed one of their games, meets or recitals. He also found time to play dart-ball with his many friends. Sundays were always special. The tradition included cookouts with his family and a game of sheepshead or bocce. As the Alioto family expanded to include three daughter's -in -law and six grandchildren, Grandpa's spaghetti sauce recipe drew the family together like a magnetic force.

In Frank's retirement years, he and Gerry loved bus trip adventures with many neighborhood friends. Gerry passed away unexpectedly in 2011 after 50 years of marriage. Frank visited her grave often. Frank was diagnosed with Alzheimer's several years ago. He spent his last few years at St. Rita's Square-the site of so many childhood memories--which brought his life full circle. The Alioto family is indebted to the support of so many people, including family, friends, and especially the caring staff at St. Rita's. He will now re-join Gerry, the love of his life.

Memorial Gathering Saturday, February 24, 2024 from 10AM to 12PM at THE FUNERAL HOME. Memorial Service to follow, at 12PM. Private inurnment at St. Adalbert Cemetery.