Frances Cimino Reinke of Avalon Square joined her beloved husband Donald on November 19, 2017. Born to Rose Cimino in Kenosha on May 31, 1921, Fran graduated first in her high school class and won a full scholarship to earn her degree from the University of Wisconsin. She was an unapologetic liberal, and up until the last weeks of her life was well informed and always very willing to debate current events with a passion.  As condolences rolled in, certain adjectives appeared over and over, including vivacious, feisty, spirited, tenacious and welcoming.  A gourmet chef, Fran’s lasagna was legendary, and she instilled a love of cooking in all her children.  Her spirit of adventure led her to travel the world with the love of her life.  In her mid-60s she took up oil painting and discovered a talent admired by many.  This painting group proved to be a source of support and resulted in opening an art gallery to display their works; Fran was proud to be a part of this effort and was thrilled to sell some of her impressionistic scenes inspired by her favorite artists.

Left to cherish her memory are her children John, Annie, Cathi and David, and her grandchildren Jesse, Morgan, Sarah, Jenny, and Emily.  She was blessed with many close friends who took wonderful care of her, and the family is especially grateful to Gordon and Marianne Blunck for their loving actions.

In lieu of flowers, please consider taking an older person to lunch, visiting an art museum, enjoying a fine bottle of wine with a gourmet dinner, going dancing and wearing bright colors.

A memorial service was held for this true Italian and devout Catholic on December 9, 2017 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, Waukesha, followed by a reception and luncheon.  Please wear something red and help us celebrate this remarkable woman who was always positive and grateful for the wonderful life she led.

Randle-Dable-Brisk Funeral Home, Crematory and Preplanning Services was honored to serve the family.