Michael Joseph Nannini
September 3, 1928 - April 30, 2022
The world lost a remarkable man and the heavens rejoiced at his homecoming.
Michael Joseph Nannini died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on April 30, 2022.
His devoted wife, Rita, was waiting for him with open arms.
Mike was born on the north side of Chicago, Illinois on September 3, 1928 to Ferdinand and Maddalena (Nee Paoletti) Nannini. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Leo, Rose, and Betty; and is survived by his in-laws Carm Nannini and Kay and Jerry Doyle.
Although he was faithful to all Chicago sports teams, he was a true-blue fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Blackhawks.
On September 3, 1955, he married Rita Ann Maloney and embraced her south-side family.
Mike and Rita were blessed with five children: Joanmarie (Russell) Wong, Robert (Jolene) Nannini, Janet (the late Thomas) McFall, James (the late Lauren) Nannini, and Thomas (Jamie) Nannini. Mike also leaves behind his “adopted” daughter, Donna Jonas. Mike was known as Pa to his loving 12 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He was a caring uncle to many nieces, nephews, and their families.
Mike proudly served his country in the Korean War as a Sergeant in the U. S. Army, 2nd Infantry, Artillery Division, at Chosen Reservoir, South Korea. He was honorably discharged several months early following a severe bout of pneumonia and loss of one of his lung lobes. As was common to many veterans of that conflict, Mike seldom spoke about his service, the ravages of war, or his physical scars, but would humbly tell his grandchildren “I did it for you.”
He was proud to be part of the Veterans Honor Flight to Washington D.C. on June 8, 2016. Upon his return from that trip, he was surprised to be greeted by a large group of family. We can vividly recall his smile and delight at that homecoming. He also was part of an honorary tribute at a Chicago Blackhawks game.
His family will always be his legacy. He taught us so much and we will always cherish his work ethic, integrity, honesty, patience, selflessness, unconditional love, and sarcastic humor.
A private mass will be celebrated at St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Salt Lake City, and he will be laid to rest at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleum, Salt Lake City.
In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
More importantly, please thank a veteran for their service at any opportunity you have.
In Loving Memory
Our condolences to Mike's beautiful family. We did not know him pesonally but felt like it from the many wonderful stories our friend Donna Jonas has told us. He was her adopted dad whom she cherished deeply. We remember when she helped organize activities surrounding his honor flight. Marge knew Donna's mom, who visited her house and was a frequent visitor at our group's Sunday night dances. Yes, Mike may be gone, but the many wonderful moments, and his lovely family remain. God bless you all. Love, Paul and Marge
Marge OConnor and Paul Sapata
Elgin, IL
Jim and Family, I'm so very sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family. The Scardina's, Boston, MA
Richard Scardina
Boston, MA
Bob, Janet and family, Our deepest condolences in the loss of your father. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Carol and Bob Hilke
Palatine, Il
My condolences to Jim and family in the loss of your father. You are in our thoughts at JCI.
Asia Hua
Toronto, ON
Janet and family, I feel so blessed that through my friendship with Janet, I got to know this amazing tight knit family. Your father was an amazing man, husband and father. Family was everything to him, and his legacy will live on through all of you. Love and support each other, at this difficult time.
Lisa Challender
Appleton, WI
Jim and Family You are in our thoughts and prayers of your Father. Our consolences and may you remember his life, smiling at the happy times while knowing the Lord is watching over the family. Mark and Julie
Mark and Julie Schulz
Oxford, WI
Dear Janet and family- The first sentence of your father's obituary was the exact emotion that I felt when you told me the news that your wonderful father had passed from this life. Your father was the example of what a man does for the family that he loves. His devotion and love for all of you would shine in his eyes when he would talk about his family. I was fortunate to have known him and will always remember his kindness towards everyone. We should all strive to be more like him. Sincerely, Janie Wooldridge
Janie Wooldridge
Fox River Grove, IL