Morales, Francisco Ismael

42, of Cicero, IL, passed away Saturday, January 6, 2018. Born in Chicago on June, 28, 1975, Frank was raised in Florida and returned to Chicago as a teenager.

A lifelong martial arts enthusiast, Frank held a blackbelt in TaeKwonDo and was an accomplished heavyweight fighter. He coached and mentored many children and adults in martial arts and later became a chess instructor for school- aged kids. Known for his infectious smile, goofy sense of humor and pleasant disposition, he treated everyone with dignity and respect. Frank was gregarious and quick to laugh. He loved to dance, he loved to drive, he loved the Cubbies. He was a storyteller. He was a fierce and loyal friend.

In his life, Frank faced a number of health struggles with grace and courage. He felt very honored to be the recipient of a donated kidney and thusly, felt a strong sense of connectedness to his community and fellow human beings.

Frank Morales was a father to Janessa, David and Alex Garcia, in whose accomplishments he took immeasurable pride. Son to Martha, brother to Emi and Omar ( Stacy), husband to Merlene and and uncle to four nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Ismael. Frank is dearly missed by his family and friends, whose lives he made better and who will never forget him.

There will be no service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Dialysis Patient Citizens https:// dpcedcenter. thankyou4caring. org/ or Donate Life America ( Organ Donation) https:// www. donatelife. net/ give- to- dla/