Franklin H. Jarussi

Frank Hugo Jarussi, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, passed away on August 24, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas. He was in the comfort of his family. Frank was born in Billings, Montana and raised in the small rural ranch community of Joliet, Montana, where children played outside until dark and owls hooted at the rising moon. Roundups were common, and during these large events mothers rounded up the kids as cattle moved through town. Life was charmed with the freedom of exploration and discovery.

 As a teen Frank was called the Gentle Giant and the Mighty Jarussi due to winning many blue track ribbons and being an outstanding football player. He was selected for the Shriners game during his senior year. He excelled at sports and enjoyed a district wide fame for his athletic accomplishments. As a Gentle Giant, he could always be counted on to end a fight or a bully session without raising a hand. The younger kids loved him and looked up to him for this.

 Frank’s early love for music led him to classical piano, and the clarinet in high school. He picked up the saxophone along the way, and enjoyed lively jazz improvisation on both reed instruments. 

 He served as president of the honor society and graduated from Joliet high school in 1964. He earned a bachelors in foreign language from Carroll College in Helena, Montana, and earned his masters on scholarship at the University of Mexico in Mexico City.

 He met Yolanda Concepcion Bello Miranda in Mexico City, and they married on August 14, 1971. After graduation in Mexico City, Frank and Yolanda returned to the U.S. He joined the marines because he felt it was his patriotic obligation. He scored so high on the entrance exam they accused him of cheating! He served four years as a captain, and often graced the officer’s club with live piano music.

 Following his marine stint, Frank and Yolanda eventually made their home in Pearsall, Texas near the Mexican border. They had three children, Ursula, Adriana and John. Frank was particularly close to his children and always proud of their accomplishments. He worked as a teacher for many years in Pearsall. 

 After the children were raised Frank and Yolanda moved to Anchorage, Alaska to work. They loved Alaska and stayed until their retirement. They loved to travel the largest state, and carried over their love of travel back to their Texas home. They made many trips to view Frank’s favorite historic trains and train stations. Frank also loved museums and historic road and landmarks. He liked to say, When seniors are asked, “What would you do over?” The number one reply was “I would travel more.” He was an extensive traveler to his final days. The Big Bend National Park was an annual family favorite. They also returned to Alaska many times. 

 Frank is survived by his wife, Yolanda Jarussi, his children Ursula Kitchen, Adriana Jarussi and John Jarussi, his grandchildren Nathan and Andrea Valdez, Franky, Skyllor and Jianna Jarussi , and his great grand children Aaron Valdez, Zion, Leia and Ozias Buentello. Surviving siblings: Louie Jarussi from Anchorage, AK, Lorraine Ball from Fairbanks, AK, Kathy Jarussi from Hamilton, MT, Rosi Muller from Fairbanks, AK, Dr. Eileen Weatherby from Hamilton, MT and Tony Jarussi from Hamilton, MT. 

 We will miss his passion for living, his gentle love for all living creatures, and his appreciation for all things beautiful. May God rest his soul. 

 In memory of Frank, flowers may be donated to Primrose Funeral Service in Pearsall, TX.

A memorial Services for Franklin Jarussi will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at 6 P.M. Primrose Funeral Services in Pearsall, Texas.