Mario Francis Iafrate passed away early on March 28, 2012 in Bellevue, Washington. He was born on May 21, 1922 to Asunta Vano and Serafino Iafrate in East Bridgeport, Massachusetts. Mario and identical twin brother, Ralph, who passed away 30 years ago, grew up in Brockton, Massachusetts along with Joe, Evelyn and Flora. Mario joined the Army right after high school, but shortly joined the U.S. Air Force Officer's program. He loved the military life and it took him around the world. In 1948 he was stationed on Guam and met his wife, Ruby, who was working in the Civil Services.

Ruby P. Iafrate (Leslie) was the love of his life for 62 years. They were married in 1950 on the Island of Guam. Traveling around the world while in the military, they finally settled in 1958 in Lakewood, WA where Mario was stationed at McChord Air Force Base (now Joint Base Lewis McChord). They were blessed with three children, Robert F. Iafrate, Barbara A. Iafrate and Carla M. Iafrate. After a successful 22 year career, Major Mario Iafrate retired with his family in Lakewood, WA.

Mario started a second career in real estate and property management at Villa Plaza (now Lakewood Towne Center) in Lakewood. He was very active in the community and was involved as a past president of Lakewood Rotary, served on several community and hospital boards including St. Claire's Hospital, American Lake Veteran's Hospital, McChord AFB Credit Union (now Harborstone Credit Union), VFW, American Legion, Veterans Association and the Air Force Association (past president). He was passionate about Veteran's Affairs Association and lobbied hospitals and the medical community for assistance. He was instrumental in increasing care and benefits for veterans and their families in the Puget Sound area.

He loved his neighbors and several times throughout his young family life, many of the neighbors would go to American Lake for afternoons of fun in the sun, trips to Hood Canal and Canada, all which brought fun and exciting stories still shared today.

We celebrate the long and full life that Mario lived, his commitment to his family, friends and community. He was a good provider, husband and father. We will miss him and share many fond memories of him around the dinner table.