Francis A. Lamonea 1946-2026

By Malibu Times · Thu Jun 25 2026

Francis Anthony Lamonea, age 79, of Malibu, CA, passed away on March 17, 2026, after a long battle with prostate cancer. 

Born in Chicago on Sept 4, 1946, Frank grew up in Venice, California. He attended Santa Monica College to study Photography. 

He married Cynthia Lee Hughes in the mid-70s and moved to Topanga Beach. They had two children, Justin and Hannah. They divorced when the children were young, and Frank never remarried. 

Frank worked for 30 years as a photographer at the Malibu Surfside News. He loved contributing to the community in this way. He also loved writing songs, playing guitar, and performing locally in Malibu and the surrounding area, and with his church choir. Frank loved nature, wildlife and hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, where he lived for his entire adult life. He was also active as a volunteer at his church. 

He was a devotee of Paramahansa Yogananda at the Lake Shrine Self-Realization Fellowship, and his family is comforted knowing that he is finally at peace with his God and all the Masters in a state of pure joy, able to experience true love like never before.

Frank is preceded in death by his father, Michael Angelo Lamonea, mother Rosina Clorinda Zeppetella and son Justin Lamonea. He is survived by his daughter, Hannah Lamonea, grandchildren Frankie, Nina and Gaige, brothers Angelo and Anthony Lamonea and extended family.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Frank’s memory to The Lake Shrine Self-Realization Fellowship.