Paul Francisco Obituary

SFC Paul Francisco was born on September 14, 1922 to Joseph G. and Bella (Lavalais) Francisco in Mansura, Louisiana. He was the second of six children: Joseph, Willie, Marcel, Madelyn who preceded him in death and Stella Francisco, who survives. Paul was married on February 11, 1946 to Bernice (Boston), who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by three sons: Lawrence Russell, Charles Steven, Raymond Anthony, and a grandson, Dante Anthony. Paul is survived by his eldest son, Richard Paul (Marnie) of San Jose, California and his only daughter, Angela Francisco-Constance (Peter) of Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was the loving grandfather of eight grandchildren: Nigel Francisco, Ryk Francisco, Rachyl Francisco, Kylie Francisco, Holly Albert-Gallagher (Sean), Adrienne Constance, Janelle Constance, Joshua Francisco, and Samara Francisco. Paul served in the United States Army from 1939 to 1962 as a Military Police Officer, Orthopedic Surgeon's Assistant, Infantryman, General's assistant, and Cook. His tours took him to Europe, Okinawa, Korea, Panama, and, in 1959, to the 4th Infantry Brigade, Ft. Carson. He retired in 1962 from Ft. Carson, Colorado and decided to make Colorado Springs his permanent home. Paul then became a chef for the United States Air Force Academy, cooking for the cadets of Mitchell Hall for twenty years. After retiring from this position, Paul, along with his wife, Bernice, spent much of their retired years cooking, catering, and serving for various functions at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Jeanine Drive. Paul was a current member of the Knights of Columbus Divine Redeemer Council 4699 and a longtime member of Council 582. He was a member of the 4th Degree Assembly, Urvan J. Vehr 88, until his health began to fail. Both he and his wife were dedicated members of the council, and participated actively in all Knights of Columbus functions. Paul will be sorely missed by all who called him "daddy", "Pops", "brother", "grandpa", "Uncle Paul", and "friend". Visitation: Monday, August 22nd, 2011, 5:00-7:00pm, Shrine of Remembrance. Rosary: Monday, August 22nd, 2011, 7:00pm, Shrine of Remembrance. Funeral Mass: Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011, 10:00am, Our Lady Guadalupe Catholic Church, Pikes Peak and Circle Drive, Colorado Springs.