IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Francis "Frank"

Francis "Frank" M. Dattilo, Jr. Profile Photo

M. Dattilo, Jr.

September 6, 1945 – December 11, 2024

Obituary

Francis Michael Dattilo, Jr. was born in Detroit, Michigan on September 6, 1945, son of Francis Michael Dattilo and Amanda Marie (Cornell) Dattilo. A lifelong Catholic, he attended St. Luke's Elementary. After graduating from St. Gregory Highschool in 1963 and attending Wayne State University, Frank served in the U.S. Army in Fairbanks, Alaska. He began his advertising career at Ross Roy Advertising in Detroit and retired as Vice President Creative Director.

Author. Playwright. Director. Actor. Frank was a man of many talents. He was passionate about sharing his creations with others. His works include numerous books, plays, and videos. He was especially proud of his Wild Golf project—a game that involved golf skills, speed, and endurance.

In his own words, Frank was a "City Boy." Captivated by Motor City sports, he backed all Detroit teams and was ready to offer pre and post game commentary. Attending the Rialto Theater as a young boy, Frank was introduced to the world of film that would continue to captivate him throughout his life. Frank relished classic movies and Film Noir. His knowledge of the movie industry was unsurpassed.

An avid Studebaker fan, Frank was a member of the Avanti Association. A sleek, black 1964 Studebaker GT Hawk was his treasured possession.

Throughout his life, Frank was a man of optimism, creativity and conviction. He will always be remembered as a loving, generous brother and devoted friend.

Frank is survived by his brothers, Anthony of Sarasota, FL, Philip (Maureen) of Escanaba, MI, Joe, of Escanaba, MI; Niece, Laura (Clay) Lumley, Great-niece Kaylin Lumley, Great-nephews, Blake Lumley and Austin Lumley; numerous cousins and friends.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, December 18, from 9:30-10:00 AM at St. Alphonsus Church, 13540 Gould Street, Dearborn, MI. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 AM with Rev. Greg Deters officiating.

Interment will take place at 3:00 PM at St. Hedwig Cemetery, 23755 Military Road, Dearborn Heights, MI.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Alphonsus Church, 13540 Gould Street, Dearborn, MI, 48126.

A special thank you to the kind, professional staff at Christian Park Village, Escanaba, MI who so lovingly cared for Frank in his final weeks.

A message of condolence may be directed to the Dattilo Family by visiting www.howepeterson.com . The Howe-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family.

You are invited to view the Mass via Livestream using the link below:

https://youtube.com/live/ha16WVIBPsQ?feature=share

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Francis "Frank" M. Dattilo, Jr., please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

Gathering of Family and Friends

December
18

St. Alphonsus Catholic Church

13540 Gould St., Dearborn, MI 48126

Starts at 9:30 am

Funeral Mass

December
18

St. Alphonsus Catholic Church

13540 Gould St., Dearborn, MI 48126

Starts at 10:00 am

Guestbook

Visits: 0

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors