Raymond Franco

Raymond was born March 10, 1930, in Peoria, the son of August and Teresa Montefusco Franco. Although he was an only child, he never felt like an only child because he was surrounded in his childhood by a large extended Italian family who loved and spoiled him. He cherished the wonderful memories of spending time with his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Ray married the love of his life, Dolores “Dee” Jean Wagner on February 3, 1951 at The Cathedral of St. Mary in Peoria. They celebrated sixty-three years of marriage prior to her death on November 4, 2014. They were blessed with three daughters.

He is survived by his children, Denise (Michael) Andrews of Morton, IL, Karen (Michael) Haarman of Louisville, KY, and Janet (Timothy) Holmes of Peoria, IL; six grandchildren, Megan Andrews of Morton, IL, Justin, Derek and Nicole Haarman of Louisville, KY, Jacob Holmes of Morton, IL, and Nicholas Holmes of Elmhurst, IL.

Ray was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Antonio Sr. and Caroline Ferraro Montefusco; his parents, and his aunts and uncles.

He worked for the United States Postal Service for over forty-two years, retiring in 1992.

Ray and Dee vacationed for over 30 years on the Gulf Coast of Florida. His heart and soul, however, belonged on the drag strip. Ray loved cars and speed. He lived, breathed, and raced cars the majority of his life. He was a part-owner and starter for the Peoria Drag Strip for many years. He was a National Hot Rod Association fan, with John Force being his favorite driver.

He was also an avid Chicago Bears and Chicago Bulls fan and enjoyed playing pool. He was a member of the Italian-American Society, the Slow Pokes, and several other car clubs.

Ray loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. Ray was a loving husband, dad, and grandpa. He will be dearly missed by his family and all who knew him.

The family would like to thank the staff of Liberty Village Manor Court of Peoria and OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home for their compassionate care.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

A memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm Friday, October 16, 2015 at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel. Visitation will be an hour prior to services. Father Kyle Lucas will officiate.

Inurnment will take place at Lutheran Cemetery at a later date.

The family asks that memorials be made to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.

To view Raymond’s memorial page or to leave an online condolence please go to www.davison-fulton.com.