Francis Frank Joseph Ala

Francis “Frank” Joseph Ala, at 86 years old, was a beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. He lived in Whittier, CA with his family for 60 years. Francis passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 17th 2013.

Frank was born October 22, 1926, in San Pedro, CA to his loving parents Cecelia Mary & George Francis Ala. He was the youngest of 3 children; Margaret, Mary Ellen, & Francis. All three growing up in a Catholic home.

He entered the US Navy in 1944 & was honorably discharged in 1946. He attended St. Mary’s College in Moraga, CA. & CSU in Long Beach, CA, achieving a Master’s degree in Engineering.

Frank met his wife to be, Shirley Smith in Oakland, CA at a USO cantina & danced the night away, into each other’s hearts forever. They were married in Oakland on June 10th 1950. They were blessed with 4 children; Paul, Mark, Cecelia & Giselle. They were also blessed with 3 grandchildren; Jesse, Jeremy & Jackie. As well as 4 beautiful great grandchildren; Sabelli, Chloe,Olivia, & Emmeline.

He was employed in the Aerospace industry & held his security clearance & code name for 38 years. He received numerous awards, honors & accolades for his classified designs & programs for naval & aerospace guidance systems from the US Navy, NASA & his employer. He retired in 1990 & began his financial investing hobby & world cruising career with his beloved Shirley. Together they enjoyed over 30 cruises. He continued to cruise with other family members after Mom’s passing. Including ringing in the New Millennium with family in the Caribbean giving a special champagne toast to his beloved Shirley at midnight!

Here’s a toast to Daddy &Mommy; “May you cruise together in heaven for all eternity!”.

God Bless!!

Arrangements under the direction of Rose Hills Company, Whittier, CA.