Vito Iafrate was born to Francesco and Antonia Iafrate in Koehler, New Mexico on January 14, 1923 and passed to Eternal Life on November 16, 2018. His loving wife Velia awaits him in heaven. He is survived by his loving daughter Antoinetta, son-in-law Lou, beloved granddaughter Carla, sister Elena Iannazzi and many nieces and nephews that he adored.

When Vito was 2 years old, he left America with his Mother and siblings to return to his parent’s hometown of Arpino, Italy.  

He fought in World War II and at the age of 24, he came to Detroit joining his 2 older brothers. He began working for Ford Motor Company and then Gargaro Excavating.   At the age of 26, he returned to Arpino to marry his beloved wife Velia (Mastroianni).  They returned to Detroit to start their life together and went on to enjoy 68 years together.

Vito founded Italo Romano Cement Company and was joined in partnership and friendship by Frank Fortuna. Vito retired in 1989, proud of his 48 years of hard work.

Vito has been a devoted member of the Italian American Club of Livonia since the early 1990’s. He loved the Club and could be found there playing cards, bocci, enjoying pasta dinners and attending almost every activity the club offered.  

Vito loved life. He was proud of his heritage and thankful for the opportunities the United States offered him. 

Our hearts are full of wonderful memories and joy of a life well lived. We will cherish these memories always.

May He Rest in Peace.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 20th, from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. Scripture Service at McCabe Funeral Home, 31950 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills.  Vito will lie in state on Wednesday at 9:30 am. until the time of his Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows, Farmington. Entombment will follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield.

Memorial donations in Vito's name are appreciated to St. Antonio in Arpino, Italy.