Frank William Miraglia

Obituary Frank died on February 17, 2009 in Tacoma, Washington. Frank was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 24, 1920, the oldest of three children. Before his teen years, Frank demonstrated his commitment to his family and responsible nature by working as a grocery delivery boy to help support his family. After graduating from high school, Frank decided to serve his country and joined the Army Air Corps. Frank was stationed overseas during World War II from 1942 to September 1945. After returning from the War, Frank went to work for the Boeing Company making airplanes. Frank then attended college night classes and obtained his degree in business and management. This allowed him to move into management and supervisory roles at Boeing. Frank met his wife, Catherine Dempsey, through church sponsored events at Blessed Sacrament Church in Seattle. On April 8, 1961, they married. Their first daughter, Yvonne, was born January 24, 1962. Yvonne is now married to Basil and they reside in Federal Way. On February 23, 1964, their second daughter, Joan, was born. Joan is married to Mark, they have two children, Catherine and Jack, and reside in Gig Harbor. On November 3, 1966, their son Mark was born. Sadly, he passed shortly thereafter. In 1988, Frank retired from the Boeing Company. Frank then became an avid collector of books relating to World War I and II. He was particularly interested in the Army Air Corps and the various airplanes built during that era. In 2006, Frank moved to Harbor Place in Gig Harbor where he continued to collect his books as well as many articles relating to the economy and politics. Consequently, Frank became responsible for providing his friends with a synopsis of current events which typically led to spirited dinner discussions about politics. Much appreciation to Dr. Raju Patel, Frank's Cardiologist, whose watchful eye, sincerity, and great care provided confidence and reassurance to Frank. Dr. Patel is a devoted and caring doctor of the heart. Frank passed away on Tuesday February 17, 2009 while in the most capable of care at the Franciscan Hospice House in University Place. The family would like to acknowledge Franciscan Hospice for their devoted end-of-life care that preserved his dignity and peaceful passing, which was a tremendous comfort to his family. The family would also like to thank Frank for being kind enough to allow his family and friends to visit with him extensively prior to his passing. Although the time was still short by any measure, not many are permitted this extraordinary opportunity with a loved one. Frank was predeceased by his parents, Biasi and Katherine Miraglia, his brother Ferdinand and his son Mark. Frank is survived by his wife Catherine, daughters Yvonne (Basil) and Joan (Mark), his grandchildren Catherine and Jack and his sister Therese. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University Place Franciscan Hospice House or any charity of your choice. Funeral Mass will be held Monday, February 23, 2009, at 9AM at St. Charles Borromeo, 7112 South 12th St., Tacoma, WA. 98465.