Frank Chimarusti's Obituary
Frank Chimarusti, a loving husband, father, grandfather & great grandfather; peacefully passed away on April 13. He was born August 15, 1922 among the vineyards in Guasti, California. Following his graduation from high school in 1940, he enlisted in the United States Navy, and after 22 years of active service, and 8 years in reserves retired as a Chief Petty Officer.
In 1944, while on leave in New York City, he met the love of his life, the beautiful Yolanda. His successful line was “Little lady can I step on your toes?” They were married on November 4, 1945, and after serving in duty stations in Illinois, New Jersey, Florida, Panama, Texas, and San Diego (Miramar NAS), were still dancing more than 70 years later.
At the age of 40, Frank enrolled in Palomar College, graduated from San Diego State in 1965 with a Bachelors of Arts, and received his elementary teaching credentials in 1968. During his employment by the Poway School District he earned a Masters in Human Behavior at US International University in 1971, and taught elementary special education for 17 of his 20 year teaching career, retiring in 1988.
For 15 years following his second retirement, Frank and Yolanda towed their travel trailer through 49 of the 50 states seeing the country they love and dancing in all kinds of venues.
Having had firsthand experience of the good work they do, Frank joined the Elks Club and was a 45 year member of the Escondido Elks Lodge #1687.
In 1982 Frank and Yolanda joined the Keeper’s Club of the Zoological Society of San Diego (Wild Animal Park) and began a long history of walking 3-5 days a week at the Park. Frank derived great enjoyment from the Park’s wonderful staff and volunteers, sharing stories, animal births and laughter with them and other park friends.
Frank is survived by his wife, Yolanda, 4 children: Wayne (Sally), Robert, Mary (Marci), and John (Karen); 6 grandchildren: Joshua (Melissa), Steven, Garin, Ryan (Natalie), Rebecca and Maria; and 5 great grandchildren: Brinley, Ellery, Kali, Abriana and Jayce.
Memorial Service will be held on May 6th at 10:00 am at Church of St Timothy located at 2960 Canyon Rd, Escondido, California. After the Mass there will be an Elks Lodge Ceremony and Military Honors outside the church with reception to follow.
If you wish to make a donation in lieu of flowers please send your donation in memory of Frank Chimarusti, to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027.
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