Gina FormaroDes MoinesGioacchina "Gina" Formaro, 88, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family Tuesday May 9, 2017 in loving care at Taylor House, Des Moines, Iowa. The family will receive friends 5-7 pm Thursday at Iles Grandview Park Funeral Home where a Vigil Service will begin at 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am, Friday, May 12th at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery.Gina was born on April 24, 1929 in Palermo, Sicily to Filippo and Maria Madonia. Gina spent her childhood in Sicily during the difficult years of WWII. As a young woman, she became a governess to the children of the American consulate in Palermo, which resulted in an opportunity to travel to the United States where she met the love of her life, George Pasquale Formaro. Gina and George married in 1960 in Des Moines, Iowa, and raised four wonderful children. They were happily married until George passed away far too soon at the age of 56. Gina was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church. In her earlier days, she enjoyed cooking (everyone knew Gina for her fantastic cooking), gardening, and spending time with her family. Gina's spirit will live on in the love of her family, and her recipes that are passed down to future generations.Gina is survived by her daughter, Carmella M. (Walt) Sankey, and her sons Tom (Rachel), Joe (Missy) and George (Sheila) Formaro, all of Des Moines; her grandchildren Jessica (Mike) Williams, Nick, Alex (Jessica), Sarah Higgins, George Sankey, Anthony (Chasta), Joe, Isabella, Hannah, Giovanni, and Gabriella Formaro; and her great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews and other relatives.Gina was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband George; and her sisters and brothers.In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to the family for a memorial fund. Condolences may be left on Gina's online guest book at www.IlesCares.com.