Frank Alesia Obituary

We are so very sad to lose a wonderful friend. We will miss Frank's wisdom and wit and his wonderful presence in our lives. Our sincere condolences to Sharon and his entire family.

To my cousin Chickie: Sorry to hear about his death. I remember when I got a picture from Auntie Angie when she visited her son in California and brought me back the first picture of the Fonz before Happy Days even came out. He signed it and put "Andrew Albanese a/k/a Bags, Jr." from South Water Market. Please accept my condolences.

I’m so very sorry to hear of Franks passing. I enjoyed meeting him and working for him, he always made me smile. I loved his sense of humor.
After designing the kitchen for the La Costa home we went to a German cabinet company to have it priced. Frank wanted to know the total cost but the vendor kept giving him unit prices and installation and add-ons. Finally Frank said, “Just tell me what it’s going to cost to go into that kitchen and make a tuna fish sandwich.” The vendor totaled everything and finally gave him the price. As he wrote the check Frank replied, “That’s one expensive tuna fish sandwich!”
May God comfort all those Frank has left behind and may His peace be with you. God bless you Sharron
Mike

Please accept my deepest condolences and may the "God of all comfort" (2 Cor. 1:3,4) be with you at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care.
Ramirez Family

We share our deepest condolences with Sharon and the rest of your family. We were guests of Uncle Chickie and Sharon in the mid-1980s in B.H. We had visited CA with two of his Chicago relatives. As soon as we arrived, Uncle Chickie and Sharon welcomed us as their own family. They were so kind and generous; upbeat, hospitable and fun to be with. Both of you will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Unfortunately for me I never had the pleasure of meeting Frank Alesia in person. I know of so many things he did with his life, and the positive affect he had on people. When an individual such as Mr Alesia cares so much for the many people that entered into his life you can only be proud to say I know of that man. He will be missed. My condolences to the entire family, and his many friends. I'd like to consider myself a friend for at least today.

To sharon and the entire Alesia family, we send our deepest condolences. No, we didn't talk to Frank everyday and no we didn't see Frank that often. But, be sure that Frank will always be in our hearts. Most of us don't have that many friends in life but Frank we certainly counted you as one of ours. You fought the good fight and as far as we are concerned your challenges were beat at the finish line one by one. Sharon, keep the faith and the next rose that blooms in that beautiful garden will be a bloom for Frank. We have lost a remarkable man.
Doug and Emily Yavanian

Sorry for your loss

I first met Chickie when our family moved next door to the Alesia's in Park Ridge in 1959. We loved his parents esp. his mom Angie. Dad, Frank Sr was one of the most generous men I have ever met.
My brother Tim, who passed away in November, fellow neighbor Moe Beard, Chickie and I played touch football and fast pitch tennis baseball in the street in front of our homes everyday after school. Chickie was a fine athlete and a wonderful friend and neighbor. Fond memories.
Our condolences go out to the entire Alesia family.
Tony Navilio, River Forest, Illinois

There are so many things in my life that I saw and did with my Uncle Chickie and Aunt Sharon. I spent two weeks with them this past August and with everything he went through in these past 3 years he still enjoyed life and made you laugh. I know he's up in heaven with my grandparents, having sausage sandwiches and gravy. It's such a big loss in all our lives. Uncle Chickie you will be missed so much and I will never forget you. My sisters and myself will have a life time of memories that you have given us. Watch over Aunt Sharon, your sister (Lucille) and brothers (Don & Mike). I love you! Donna

Our deepest condolences to the entire family for your loss of cousin "Chickie". May he rest in peace

I met Frank,march 2008 soon after his terrible accident.I was his private nurse.when I encountered Frank, I was overwhelmed with the amount of care that he required.He couldn't walk,talk,move,or even hear at that time.When I was introduced to Frank and made eye contact. I felt something special about him and I then decided to give him my all.He worked Soooooooo Hard to regain his independence,and always with a positive attitude.I helped to assemble Frank's care team.He was determined to get well and return home to his Beloved wife,Sharon.She inspired Frank so much. They are truly a Love story that needs to be written.Any one that knew Frank,knew that he undoubtedly adored and Trully Loved his wife Sharon.I'm so thankful that he was able to reunite with his wife at home and continue his life surrounded by his Wonderful family, staff, and Fantastic friends. I MISS YOU FRANK!!!!!

As long as I could remember, Frank was my Uncle Chickie. He was my Fathers closest childhood friend. Uncle Chickie and Aunt Sharon always treated my brother and I like family. Growing up, it was wonderful to see how devoted they were to one another. My Uncle Chickie always saw the "funny" in situations and made those around him feel comfortable. I remember one visit as a child he drove us around Beverly Hills for hours pointing out all the stars homes. We were mesmerized as he shared his knowledge of stars and their homes. Years later, I learned that he didn't know where anyone lived; he just wanted to enjoy our time together, and give us the Hollywood experience. Uncle Chickie taught me about generosity, and the joy of being kind to everyone no matter who they were. He will be sorely missed, but remembered forever.

Frank and I went to Southern Illinois University together. Later, when I arrived in Hollywood, he became my roommate and we lived together in an apartment on Crescent Heights Boulevard. His friend, agent Jack Gilardi, lived right next to us and I got to know Jack and his girlfriend,soon-to-be wife Annette Funicello. Frank also introduced me to Don Rickles, Harvey Lembeck, Jerry Lewis and others. It was a great new experience for me as a young actor. Frank was a happy, open, special guy. Much in common, we worked on screen with some of the same actors and also did lots of children's television. He introduced me to Hollywood and I'll never forget him. Rest in Peace, Frank. Roger Galloway [email protected]

I have known "Chickie" since we were teenagers appearing on several TV dance programs and social clubs. He was always a lot of fun and friendly to everyone. Both he and Sharon were very gracious when visiting their BH home. May you rest in peace.

Like Curt, I was fortunate enough to have my life touched by Mr.Alesia. As his barber for the last 5 years, I cant even begin to write all the wonderful things and life lessons he has taught me. And quite a few funny stories too! Funniest man I've ever known. I'm so happy to have known him. He was a true friend and I am so grateful for all of the great times, laughs, and fun memories I got to share with him. I will remember them always. Thanks for everything Frank. Your friend,
Scott

I have had the greatest honor of working for Mr. Alesia for the past seven years. He once corrected me as I announced myself as his "employee" he said "your not my employee, I love you and you are part of my family". He is the most gracious, thoughtful, caring, loving man I've known, and the best story teller as well. He sure could tell a story. I too have learned a lot from him. I've learned about strength and courage and to continue to laugh through it all. I take comfort in knowing that the brightest star in the sky is him shining down on us guiding us. I will miss him beyond any words could ever say. And may I add... the man sure did smell great! I love you Mr. Alesia.

I had the pleasure (and a humbling life-lesson) of meeting and 'Driving' Mr. Frank Alesia. Even though I had the wheel, I was really a welcomed passenger, sharing a too short part of his life-journey. The first time that I was to drive him to see his horse race at The Santa Anita Racetrack, I insisted that I knew the proper exit (Baldwin) off the 210 -- having 'grown-up' in the San Gabriel Valley and going to that track with MY Father & Grandfather -- he let me embarrass myself and then kindly said, "Yes, we will go to that side of the track later, to see the horses workout or to visit them in the barn, but, if you don't mind, I would like you to take me to Turf Club Entrance please, off Santa Anita where I asked." Instead of waiting in the car, he would always have me upstairs for lunch, referring to me as his friend and associate.
Wow! did I have a lot to learn! I have never met anyone more thoughtful, or more caring of people's feelings (besides my own family) than Frank 'Uncle Chickie' Alesia.
His Beautiful Spirit flies with his Horses, and lifts our hearts who knew him. You are a WINNER Mr. Alesia! Thanks for the Ride!

Mr. Alesia knew just how to relate to each person he came in contact with. It truly didn't matter how long you knew him he would treat you like family. Frank was a great man and his uplifting energy was spread to all around him. We will all miss you greatly and you will always be in our thoughts.

I met Mr. Alesia while working at the La Costa Resort and Spa. Over the next few years I truly considered Mr. and Mrs. Alesia friends. Mr. Alesia always brightened up the atmosphere and was always incredibly kind, gracious towards me, my brother Vincent and our co-workers. He was true Hollywood. I'm happy to have been lucky enough to hear words of encouagement, advice and funny stories from "one of the god ones". I won't forget you Mr. Alesia. I keep you in my thoughts too Mrs. Alesia, I miss your wit and style!

As teens, my cousin "Chickie" and I shared a lot of laughs and good times together. Til we meet again. Deepest condolences to the family.

Dear Sharon, Lois and I were heartbroken upon hearing of Frank's passing. We were so fond of him and always enjoyed our times together. Our depest condolances to you and your family. Love Lois & Larry

I got to know Frank via thoroughbred horseracing...it was a pleasure to know him...Frank was top shelf...one of the most well liked people at the track...all class...I will miss him very much.

I am very sad to hear of Frank's passing... He was a generous man who will not be forgotten. My condolences to Sharon and his the rest of the family...

Our deepest condolences to Sharon and her family for their loss of Frank. His amazing wit and positive outlook on life will always be remembered. May he rest in peace

Peter Fodor & staff