It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Frank Steven Cerini, who departed this life on March 9, 2024, at the age of 82, due to multiply organ failures.
Born on June 2, 1941, in Lovelock, Nevada, Frank was the beloved son of George and Dorothy Cerini.
Frank was a pillar of the community, renowned for his strength of body and spirit. He possessed an unwavering commitment to standing up for the underdog and had an innate ability to bring joy to those around him.
With his quick wit and infectious laughter, he earned a special place in the hearts of all who knew him. His enjoyment for humor and endearing habit of assigning affectionate nicknames to family and friends endeared him to many.
From a young age, Frank demonstrated a knack for craftsmanship, constructing his first hot rod during his high school years, which eventually led to his participation in stock car racing at the Lovelock rodeo grounds.
Additionally, he formed a formidable team roping duo with his brother, Dave “Mott” Cerini.
In 1963, Frank enlisted in the United States Army, graduating from boot camp at USAR Fort Lewis, Washington.
He was subsequently stationed at Fort Richardson, Alaska, serving with Military Company 4th Battalion, Infantry Regiment 172nd Infantry Brigade from 1963 to 1965.
He was honorably discharged as a specialist in light weapons infantry.
Upon his return to Lovelock, Frank met and married his first wife, Susan Warren, on March 31, 1967, he later adopted her sons, John and Jim.
Together, they welcomed their son, Steven “Rocco” Cerini, in May 1968. Although their marriage lasted 13 years, Frank and Susan remained lifelong friends.
In 1981, fate intervened when Frank unexpectedly met Dianne “Lady Di” during her visit to town for Thanksgiving.
They were united in marriage on December 18, 1982, and Frank later adopted Dianne’s daughter, Danielle. In May 1985, they welcomed their son, Shane Cerini, into their lives.
Frank’s diverse interests and talents were evident throughout his life. Revered as a mechanical genius by his son John, Frank possessed an unparalleled ability to build, rebuild, or repair anything he set his mind to, excelling in the restoration of cars and tractors.
His pursuits included fishing, archery, trap shooting, hunting, farming, horse breaking, team roping and aviation, as he shared his passion for flying with his companions. He lived by the motto, “if you are going to do it, do it right.”
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor, Frank held a deep affection for all living creatures, particularly his cherished dog, Peppy, and his faithful horse, Charlie.
Frank was preceded in death by his father, George; mother, Dorothy; younger brother, Arnold; and son, Jim.
He is survived by his wife, Dianne; daughter, Danielle (Cerini) Renfroe; sons, Steve, Shane, John; sister, Sandra (Cerini) Felton; brothers, Dave Cerini and Louis Wood; as well as 13 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and their families.
Although Frank’s physical presence will be sorely missed at the Senior Center and by his Family, his memory will forever be cherished in our hearts through the countless memories, humorous anecdotes, and the enduring love he shared with his family and friends.
A military honor in remembrance of Frank will take place on May 11, 2024, at 3:00 pm, at Lone Mountain Cemetery on Lone Mountain Road in Lovelock, Nevada.
A celebration of Frank’s life will follow at the Pershing County Community Center, located at 820 6th Street, Lovelock, Nevada, at 4:00 pm on May 11, 2024.
Kindly RSVP to Dianne Cerini via Facebook Messenger or at dianne4frank@gmail.com by May 5, 2024, indicating the number of attendees to ensure adequate arrangements for all guests.