Nazzareno D’Angelo, affectionately known as Mike to his friends, was born February 22, 1942, in Vibo Valentia, Calabria, Italy, to Francesco and Elizabetta D’Angelo, Nazzareno’s life was a remarkable journey that left an indelible mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. Nazzareno departed this world peacefully, surrounded by the warmth of his beloved family, November 25, 2023.
Nazzareno, the youngest among five siblings, including Antonio, Ignazio, Michael, and Antonino, left Italy with his family when he was 14 and settled in Toronto, Canada. After graduating high school, Nazzareno moved to New Jersey to attend Rider College. It was there he met the love of his life, Anna. United in matrimony on June 21, 1969, in New Jersey, the couple’s journey led them to Iowa City, Iowa, where he pursued his studies at the University of Iowa Law School.
Nazzareno (Mike) and Anna eventually made their home in Oakland, Iowa, where he became a respected general practitioner of the law, tending to the diverse legal needs of the community. His influence was not confined to the courtroom; he became an integral part of Oakland’s social fabric, actively participating in a wide variety of community organizations.
Nazzareno and Anna love their three children—Dr. Michael D’Angelo, Maryann D’Angelo, and John D’Angelo. Together, they instilled the values of education and hard work. Nazzareno’s pride swelled as each of his children earned degrees from Creighton University, paving their own paths of success. Dr. Michael D’Angelo achieved a Medical Doctorate, Maryann D’Angelo earned a Juris Doctorate and Master in Tax Law, using her skills in accounting, and John D’Angelo followed in his father’s footsteps, with a Juris Doctorate and practicing law to help others.
Nazzareno’s passion for his community went beyond the courtroom. Whether it was addressing legal matters or providing a comforting home for those that needing a place during holidays. His children’s lives and careers took them outside Iowa, yet Nazzareno and Anna proudly called Oakland – a testament to his deep-rooted connection with their friends and the community.
Mike was a dedicated professional and community pillar. More importantly, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Nazzareno is survived by his wife, Anna; his three accomplished children, along with their spouses Adriana and Emily; and his seven cherished grandchildren — Brillianna (Brandon) Barlow, Alexander D’Angelo, Mario D’Angelo, Dominic D’Angelo, Evelyn D’Angelo, Bella D’Angelo, and Valentino D’Angelo. In addition, his brother, Antonino (Lidia) D’Angelo, and sisters-in-law, Antonina D’Angelo, Rose D’Angelo, and Adelina D’Angelo.
In honoring Nazzareno’s memory, in-lieu of flowers the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to Our Lady of Peace Hospice in St. Paul, Minnesota, where he received tender care in his final days. Donations can be made at www.ourladyofpeacemn.org/donate.
May Nazzareno D’Angelo rest in eternal peace, his legacy echoing through the lives he touched and the communities he enriched.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 11:00 AM, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Avoca, IA. Visitation with the family will take place at the church starting at 9:00 AM. Interment will be in the Oaklawn Cemetery at Oakland at 1:30 PM. Rieken Vieth Funeral Home in Oakland is assisting the family with arrangements.
