Francesco D’Anna from Trabia, Sicily - July 3, 1934 to December 2, 2019 - 85 years of age. He passed away peacefully in San Jose, California, surrounded by his family after a long and valiant battle with Alzheimer’s.
Francesco developed his strong work ethic early in life working on the family’s olive ranches in Sicily. He had many hobbies and talents including music. He learned to play the trumpet as a teen. His talents allowed him to perform for most of his life. After a stint in the army, Francesco went back to Trabia, where he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Antonina. After a long courtship, they married in 1963 and had their first child, Maria, in 1964.
Like many of their childhood friends and other family members, Francesco and Antonina decided to immigrate to San Jose, California in 1965. Francesco worked multiple jobs his first few months in the U.S. until he joined the Ford Motor Company, where he worked for most of his working life.
He enjoyed his hobbies of music and gardening, which allowed him to proudly provide fresh fruits and vegetables to friends and neighbors. He continued to play in bands. Francesco was a staple for several years playing the Italian and America national anthems at Italian-American night at the San Jose Giants games.
Francesco was very involved with the church. He spent countless hours volunteering and helping those less fortunate.
His greatest passion was his family. He unselfishly always focused on them.
Francesco is survived by his wife of 56 years, Antonina, daughter Maria Vallelunga, son Tony D’Anna, grandchildren Alexandria, Christina, Kristopher, son-in-law Michael, daughter-in-law Liz, nephew Ignazio D’Anna, brother Giovanni, sister Santina and numerous nieces and nephews.
He will be reunited with his brother Nicola, his father Antonino and mother Maria.
Please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.
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