Richard Thomas Franco

life story

Our Family

We had the opportunity to be together as a family this summer when Eric and his family were able to visit monthly from Laramie, WY.

Dad

Dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer in April 2023. He opted for Chemo and when that was no longer working he choose to stop in August and enjoy the time he had left with family and friends. He fought up till the end and still stubborn as ever. He passed peacefully surrounded by family on 11/4/23.

Dad married mom (Nancy) on 12/24/1984, and were together for more than 44 years. They have 3 children Kelly, Eric and Jonathan. Grandson named Blaine.

He is survived by his mother Lucy and siblings Tony, David, Debbie, Leonard and Vicki.

Dad worked for St Paul Foundry for 40 years and retired in 2019.

Dad is always going to be remembered for his smile which could light up a room. He loved his gardening and tending to his orchids. He loved to listen to his music especially his oldies. Everyone knew that he made the best hot sauce and it would be requested for events, family get togethers and even requested for Christmas gifts. Many people thought dad was in the service because of how patriotic he was. He was always wearing a shirt with the American Flag and Eagles, a hat with the Thin Blue Line and flew an American Flag in the front yard. He supported veteran's and always had the "Flower of Remembrance" in his vehicles visor.

Dad was a very selfless and compassionate person who would help anyone who needed it. He was the patriarch of the family because anytime anyone needed help on anything he would be there to help and being the jack of all trades there are so many people who have a story of when he did something for them. He never asked or expected anything in return when he helped that was just how he was. He was one of the most dependable, hardworking and loyal persons you could know and he had a strong worth ethic.

Dad was big on family and his impacts went far past just his kids. So many cousins, nieces and nephews who were close to him. He enjoyed family get togethers and everyone looked forward to his fall fish fry's. After a long summer of catching fish with mom, Tony and Holly he would have everyone over to feast on their hard work. He enjoyed being with family.

He was most at peace when he visited Eric and his family in Laramie, WY. He would enjoy watching the amazing sunsets and sunrises.

He always left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be missed and loved by so many.

memorial service

Funeral Service/ Luncheon

November 14, 2023

Our Lady of Guadalupe Diocesan Shrine 401 Concord St, St Paul, MN 55107, USA

Visitation 10 am

Mass 11am

Luncheon 12pm

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services