Mike Fronte

Mike Fronte peacefully left us for heaven on Saturday November 9, 2019.  He is survived by his wife of 58 years and love of his life Giovanna, daughters Maria and Sara, son Pete, 10 grandchildren (David, Michael, Riley, Thomas, Mikal, Albert, John, Joshua, Jeremey and Alex), 6 great grandchildren (Lorenzo, Santino, Ruth, Henry, Lilian and Lucy), sisters Sara and Josie and many other family members and close friends.  He joins his daughter, Lucia, in heaven.

Mike was born in Pachino, Sicily on 6/20/35.  Always one to dream of better future, as a 7 year old he came to desire life in America when an American soldier took him to a hospital during a WWII conflict in Sicily.  With Americans saving his country, he realized one day his life could be better in America.  At this time, he developed a strong desire for California.

He served for the Italian Airforce in Caserta, Italy where he learned his trade as a mechanic that could fix anything.  His journey to USA would have a few detours but would not derail his dream.  In 1954 he left for Valenzuela where he worked for the Shell Oil company.   In 1958 he joined other family members in Toronto Canada, one step closer to America.  This is where he met the love his life Giovanna and they were married in 1961. 

Life in Canada brought 4 children and the diesel and high performance engine skills that would punch his ticket to the USA.  The first attempt was a sponsorship opportunity with Mercedes Benz in Anaheim, California in 1969.  In 1971 Mike and his young family returned to Toronto as his USA residency application was put on hold.  Besides being one to dream, he worked very hard and would never give up.  In 1978, Mike and the family were granted permanent residence in the USA.  The family settled in Riverside California to fulfill both dreams of living USA and California.  As he would say, “L’importante e non mollare mai” (it’s most important to never weaken or give up).  In 1988 he became a proud USA citizen.

Besides working for Mercedes and Ferrari, Mike was a diesel engine specialist and finished his career as an Operating Engineer.  In 1997 he retired to enjoy his family and travel.  Mike and Giovanna enjoyed cruises, road trips and visiting family across the country.  His other passions were Formula 1 racing, Ferrari in particular, Mariachi music and dancing, playing cards, Juventus soccer and anything with his grandkids.

Mike was defined by his gentle spirit yet strong desire to reach his dreams and take care of the family.  His work ethic was exceptional.  As recent as his 81st birthday he was reading the classifieds looking for a job.  This is after breaking a hip and being limited in mobility.  He has another role now and we have no doubt Mike and Lucia are embracing in heaven.  Rest in peace! 

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In memory of Mike, the family is suggesting a donation to Inheritance of Hope (IOH).  IOH is a charity that serves children and families effected by a terminal illness such as cancer.   IOH was very important to Mike’s late daughter Lucia.  PO Box 90 Pisgah Forest, NC 28768; www.InheritanceOfHope.org  

Mass

Friday 11/22 at 4:00

St. Vincent Ferrer Church

27931 Murrieta Rd., Sun City CA 92586

Memorial Dinner

Friday 11/22 at 5:30

29892 Fernleaf Dr. (Clubhouse)

Menifee, CA 92586

For questions call or text:  949-433-7333

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Mike Fronte, please visit our Tree Store.