Frank, or Frankie as he was called by his friends and loved ones, is survived by his wife of 75 years, Lupe Rios, children Patricia Diaz (Gilbert), Anthony Rios (Cindy), Daniel Rios (Yolanda), Mary Magana, Cynthia Brown (Dennis), as well as his 21 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren with one on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Ruben Rios, sister Isabel Garcia, son Francisco Rios, daughter Linda Harris and grandson Anthony Rios Jr.
Frank was born to Francisco and Mary Rios on October 8, 1927 in Kansas City, Missouri. He was raised by his father after his mother’s death, when he was five years old.
At age 17, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Upon returning home, he became reacquainted with his childhood friend, Lupe, and fell in love. They married and raised a large Catholic family together. He was idolized by his three sons and he was his four daughters’ hero. He spent countless hours taking his sons hunting and fishing, doodling with his daughters, and he was the best storyteller his children had ever heard. He was a master teacher as well, not only teaching his kids about the world, but guiding and giving them sage advice to maneuver through it. He worked hard to make ends meet for his family. After retiring from Cudahy Packing he went into business with his eldest son and ran the family owned business, Frank and Son’s Trucking.
He was determined to offset the meager family beginnings from his childhood by creating an atmosphere where his family would flourish. With his own two hands, he built a backyard oasis that witnessed countless birthday pool parties, 4th of July spectaculars, family weddings, Cinco de Mayo fiestas, Easter egg hunts, visits from Santa, and weekly Saturday night family bingo games. He realized his dream of giving his children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren a foundation of values they carry on to their families today.
His family laughs, cries, and mourns together. But most importantly they love each other deeply, because they had a role model like Frank.
A funeral service is scheduled on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Raytown, Missouri at 10:00am with graveside services following at Mount Moriah Cemetery in Kansas City. Masks are required.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
