Francesco "Frank" Pecoraro

A man who was well known in his community, Francesco “Frank” Pecoraro lived a life that demonstrates that one can accomplish great things through hard work and dedication.

The 1930s were a time of hardship throughout much of the world due to the unrelenting grip of the Great Depression, and life in Italy was no different. In 1933 Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany, and in the aftermath of the Reichstag fire in 1933 the stage was set for the rise of the Nazi Germany and with that, Europe was never the same. Despite the unrest around them a young couple from Italy was pleased to announce the birth of their healthy baby boy on March 4, 1935. Francesco was welcomed by his parents, Salvatore and Rosalia (D’Amico) Pecoraro, and spent his formative years in his native Italy.

New and exciting changes were in store for Frank when he met and later married a young lady named Rosaria Fontanazza on November 23, 1959, in Italy. Together they were blessed with their daughter, Rosalia, and their son, Salvatore. Rosaria and their children immigrated to the United States, and Frank followed about one year later.

Frank found work as a butcher at Glorioso’s Grocery Store and Deli in Milwaukee and after more than 25 years of dedicated service, Frank retired. He was affectionately known as the “Pepperoni and Cannoli Guy” because he could often be found at the various nightspots on Milwaukee’s East Side selling pepperoni and cannoli to the patrons.

Through the life he lived each day, Francesco Pecoraro made a lasting impact in the lives of so many around him. His devotion to his work, his community, and his family is to be admired. Frank will be missed and warmly remembered.

Francesco Pecoraro died on February 16, 2012. Frank’s family includes his wife, Rosaria; children, Rosalia (Franco) Barbara and Salvatore Pecoraro; 3 grandchildren; 1 great-grandson; and other relatives and friends. Visit with Frank’s family and friends at Three Holy Women Parish – St. Rita Church, 1601 N. Cass St. on Tuesday, February 21, 2012, from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 7:00 p.m. Entombment Holy Cross Cemetery. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or sign the online guestbook.