Remarkable Mama Arnolfo
1921 – 2021
“If food is there, people will be there.”
Frances C. Arnolfo of Fort Collins, mother of longtime former Silver Grill Owner John Arnolfo, died July 6, 2021 at age 100. She was renowned for her authentic Italian food (especially her homemade raviolis), which were the foundation for what she lived and loved: bringing family and friends together to laugh, talk, tell jokes, and just indulge.
Her culinary legend lives on along with her reputation as a knitter of extravagant, designer-level dresses, tops, hats, and more.
Neighborhood hangout
While raising daughter Nancy and son John – both now Fort Collins residents – the Arnolfo house in California was the neighborhood hangout. And she loved it. “We always had a fridge full of homemade food,” John said. “She was the master of the 30-minute homemade meal, even when eight hungry kids popped in.”
Power of entrepreneurship
Born Sept. 13, 1920 in Stockton, Calif. to Italian immigrants, she married John Arnolfo, Sr., in 1941. Over the years they owned several grocery stores in the San Francisco area, including Pick-‘n-Pay Market for 17 years, which was famous for its Italian deli and 25¢ sandwiches.
John Sr. and Frances taught their children the power of entrepreneurship. Today, daughter Nancy is President of The Idea Group Interior Design in Fort Collins. Son John owned the renowned Silver Grill Cafe in Fort Collins for 42 years, turning a 1-room diner into a large restaurant seating 200 that Esquire Magazine said serves America’s Best Breakfast.”
Model A first date
The Silver Grill’s famous 1930 Model A “mascot,” which son John meticulously restored over several years, is the same vehicle John Sr. drove on his first date with Frances. In recent decades, Frances was Silver Grill’s ambassador, riding in the Model A with John during local parades and warmly greeting guests each weekend.
Be Like Frances
Her clever wit, friendships with all no matter their background, and that amazing food endures. Live how she lived. Bring family and friends together, laugh, tell jokes, and always approach life with delight.