Donald Franco Obituary
We are sad to announce that on July 15, 2018 we had to say goodbye to Donald Franco (Utica, New York). Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Donald Franco to show support.
He was predeceased by: his parent Anthony Franco. He is survived by: his parent Mary Franco (Arthelia).
Always a proud East Utican, Dini loved spending time with his many friends at the "Get Together Club and George's on James St. In an age of political polarization, Dini was always able to reach across the aisles and work with anyone, for the betterment of his community. From the street sweeper, to those in the highest positions, he was always there to help anyone in need. On July 4, 1959, Dini was joined in marriage to the former Carol Jones. They have shared over fifty-nine loving years of marriage and family in their beloved Utica. His passing is not only a tremendous loss to his family, but to our entire community. Dini will be deeply missed. A loving and dedicated, husband, father, and grandfather, Dini is survived by his devoted wife, Carol; his two daughters and sons-in-law, Michelle and Michael Mancuso, of Utica and Lynette and Dante Lentricchia, of New Hartford; his grandchildren, David M. Pardi and Steven Pardi, Anastasia and Richard Farone, and his "twins", Angelina and Isabella Mancuso; he was also awaiting the arrival of his great granddaughter; his sisters-in-law, Patricia Franco and Ellen Williams; brother-in-law, William Jones; and also many nieces and nephews, especially acknowledging his nephews, Jim and Tony Franco and niece, Marie Buck and her son, David Buck, who was always there for their Uncle Dini. He was predeceased by three brothers, James Franco (WWII), Carmine "Froggie" Franco, and Anthony "Gig" Franco; a brother-in-law, John Williams; and sister-in-law, Hilda Jones. His funeral with Military Honors will be held on Friday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call on Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger St., at Mohawk St., Utica. The family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to Dini's many friends for their phone calls, prayers, and visits during this difficult time. In consideration of Dini's love of animals, the military and the needs of people, please consider donations to the Stevens Swan Humane Society, TAPS Our Duty, or the Abraham House.
