Daniele Ianiro Sr.

On Tuesday, February 15, 2022, after a long and full life, Daniele Ianiro Sr. passed away peacefully at age 85 with his family at his side.

Dan was born January 7, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York to Nicola and Anna (Romeo) Ianiro. He was the youngest of 9 children.

On December 27, 1958, Dan married Marlene Marie Gerrells at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Fargo, North Dakota. Together they raised three children: Daniel Jr., Janice, and Steven. 

Dan served his country in the U.S. Air Force. During his time in the military, he was part of Operation Redwing in the Marshall Islands, testing the atomic bomb. Later, he worked at Lockheed on various projects, including the Hubble Space Telescope.

He was known for his ability to fix anything, his love of family, opera and all things Italian, astronomy, and thin-sliced Genoa salami. He was Grandpa, Papa, and Bapa to his grandchildren who adored him. Dan and Marlene considered it a priority to pray for each of their children and grandchildren every night.

Dan is preceded in death by his parents, his 8 siblings, his son Daniel Jr., grandson Justin, and son-in-law Walt. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Marlene (Gerrells) Ianiro, children Janice and Steven, daughters-in-law April and Stacey, 11 granddaughters, one grandson, and 10          great-grandchildren. 

A memorial service celebrating Dan's life will be held Monday, February 21, 2022 at 10:00 am at Faith Lutheran Church, 24688 County Highway 6, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota 56501. Condolences may be sent to 1325 Pelican Lane, Apartment 208, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota 56501.