Loving Father, Grandfather and Brother

Russell G. DeFranco, 93, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away on Monday September 15, 2014 at Northgate Health Care Facility in Wheatfield, NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY he was the son of the late Vincenzo "James" and Caroline (Fusco) DeFranco.

Russell attended local schools and graduated from Niagara Falls High School. During World War II, he served as base unit meteorologist with the United States Army Air Forces and was honorably discharged as a sergeant on October 1, 1945. On November 14, 1945 he married Marjorie A. (Palumbo) DeFranco in St. Joseph Church in Niagara Falls, NY. Mrs. DeFranco predeceased him on February 23, 1996. Russell began working at the family owned and operated, DeFranco Hardware in Niagara Falls, at an early age until his retirement in the mid 1990's. The store continues to be operated by the third generation of the DeFranco family. A true craftsman, Russell was known for his creativity and artistry with linoleum art. He was an active board member and long time supporter of Niagara Falls Little Theater. Russell was always very supportive and generous to anyone during their times of need.

Mr. DeFranco is survived by two children, Carole R. Southwood and Russell P. DeFranco, both of Niagara Falls, NY; two grandchildren, Erica Southwood and Ian Southwood; a sister, Angeline (late Joseph) Borgese of Lewiston, NY; a brother, Michael "Mickey" (Ann) DeFranco of Lewiston, NY; his former son-in-law Michael (Tecia) Southwood of Crystal Lake, IL and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by two sisters, Josephine (late Nicholas) Schiro and Rose (late George) Morreale; and four brothers, Frank (late Yolanda) DeFranco, Anthony (late Mary) DeFranco, Anthony (late Josephine) Guarino, and Samuel (late Flora) (late Bernice) DeFranco.

Visitation will be Thursday 3 – 8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY RD. NIAGARA FALLS, NY. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated on Friday September 19th at 10:00 AM at St. Mary of the Cataract Church, 259 Fourth St. Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Jacek Mazur, officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Alzheimer Association, WNY Chapter, 2805 Wehrle Drive Suite 6, Williamsville, NY 14221. Interment with military honors in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online guest register.