Franca Cappelli

Franca Cappelli, a long-time Huntington Beach resident, died in her home on Sunday, 23 September 2018, after suffering a cerebrovascular episode.

Franca was born in Marina di Grosseto, Italy, on 18 October 1930.  Her parents, Angelo and Teresa Roghi, came to the United States in 1955. She had two brothers and four sisters--Elio, Elia, Giuseppina, Franca, Giuliana, Franco, and Rosanna.

Franca and her family survived World War II in Italy, and came to the United States in 1955.  Always a hard worker and a woman with an independent spirit, Franca worked in a tuna cannery in San Pedro and as a planter of celery, with her sister Giuliana.  She also found a job in a welding company making jewelry. Franca worked until she met her husband of 33 years, Domenic Cappelli, at an Italian Church singles dance. Once married, Franca became a homemaker where she cared for her husband, son, and granddaughter.  Franca was an excellent cook and there was never a day where something delicious was not cooking on the stove.  Franca’s home was always warm and welcoming, and her generosity and joy at having company made it easy to visit her often.

There is an Italian saying: Amore di mamma, amore senza limiti .  A mother’s love has no limits, and Franca’s motherly love for her son, granddaughter, and everyone whom she met knew no limits.

Franca is survived by her son Alex Cappelli, her granddaughter Gina Cappelli, and her sisters Giuliana Cairo and Rosanna Mistretti, as well brother-in-law Sam Mistretti, numerous nieces and nephews, and many loving friends.