Frank Louis Riolo

Frank Louis Riolo was born at his parents home in Roseville on February 28, 1916. He lived his entire life one mile in either direction of where he was born, farming and harvesting the surrounding land.

Frank purchased his first farm property in 1947 on the edge of Roseville. He planted his grape vineyard with zinfandel and mission variety grape vines. He managed the care and harvest of his vineyard up until the day he died at age 100 years.

Grape growing was Frank's first farming passion, but he also farmed other crops with his brother Ross for many decades. Together, they farmed dry land wheat, rice, almonds and walnuts. Frank's ranch was the heart of the Riolo farming enterprise.

Frank married Honey, the love of his life, in 1941. They were happily married for almost 74 years, until Honey's death in 2014. Together, they had one son, Richard. Their home was the gathering spot for farming operations, and also for social events. Every holiday and birthday, family and friends would gather at Frank and Honey's for festive occasions. Dancing in the barn was a favorite party activity.

Frank's second passion after grape growing and farming, was fine horses and good dogs. He raised top-quality horses, and many of his colts went on to ranchers and horse show enthusiasts. Frank trained his dogs using unlimited patience, and his dogs were used for hunting a variety of game birds.

Frank was preceded in death by his dearly loved wife Honey, his parents Anton and Sarah Riolo, sister Catherine Bianchi and brother Ross Riolo. Frank is survived by his devoted son Richard (Toby); grandchildren Justin (Jill), Ryan, Paige (Dominic), Samuel, and Richie. Great grandchildren are Brody, Elizabeth, and Levi. Frank also leaves behind loving brother and sisters-in-law Nick and Jeannie Piacentini and Fina Boyd. He is also survived by many affectionate nieces, nephews and cousins.

Frank will be laid to rest next to his beloved Honey, less than a quarter mile from their ranch. Family and friends are invited to gather for a quiet graveside service at Union Cemetery on Watt Avenue, Monday, April 18 at 11 am.