Gerardo "Jerry" DeFranco, 62 of Kenosha passed away peacefully on Friday, March 15, 2013 at his residence, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Cosenza, Italy September 18, 1950, the son of the late Antonio and Rosaria (Verre) DeFranco. He immigrated to Kenosha at the age of eight and attended local schools. He graduated from Bradford High School and attended UW-Parkside.On October 1, 1977 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church he married Karen Hellman.For over 15 years he had been employed by Kenosha Water Utility as a Production Manager until his retirement in 2011 due to his illness. He had previously been employed by the American Brass for 22 years.He was member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church and the Kenosha CIty Union. Jerry enjoyed bowling, repairing things around his house, attending Church Festivals, most of all he loved watching his grandchildren’s sporting events.Surviving are his wife Karen; a son: James (Hollie) DeFranco of Pleasant Prairie; a Daughter, Lisa (Nick) Larsen of Pleasant Prairie; three brothers; Mario (Lidia) DeFranco of Kenosha; Luigi (Maria) DeFranco of Kenosha; Mike (Rita) of Kenosha; two sisters; Mary (Robert Benson) DeFranco of Kenosha; Nancy (John) Salituro of Kenosha and his two grandchildren Owen and Sophie Larsen. Jerry is also survived by nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends.He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Frank, a sister in infancy and a great nephew Joseph Salituro.**A special thank you to Dr. Bandealy and his entire staff, the staff of Hospice Alliance and Dr. Walter Wong and his staff.Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 23rd at Proko Funeral Home at 9:30 A.M. Mass to be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church. Entombment to follow at All Saints Mausoleum. Visitation will be held on Friday from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Proko Funeral Home. Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th Street Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit Jerry’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
mary
April 1, 2013
Jerry, Easter without you seemed so empty. Rest in Peace little brother. Love always, Mary.
Barb Hedden
March 22, 2013
Jerry was a great guy to work with. I will always remember his wise counsel and helpful ways. Our prayers are with you.
Joanne & Steve Relich
March 21, 2013
To Karen and family and all the DeFranco families: We extend our deepest sympathy at this difficult time. May you find comfort through the grace of our loving God. May pleasant memories help as you go through the adjustment period ahead. We care.
Joyce & Ozzie Sorensen
March 20, 2013
Jerry was such a great guy to spend time talking to, from our high school days through to church festivals. His smile and his laugh was always a good indication he was having a fun time. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. We're thinking of you at this time and wishing you comfort and peace. Extending our sincere sympathy.
Jan Voss
March 20, 2013
Dear Karen, You have my thoughts and prayers.
Anna Singer
March 17, 2013
Mary, So sorry to hear about your brother. I am thinking of you and your family. Anna and Scott Singer
MARY DeFRANCO
March 17, 2013
To my little brother, remember Jerry that I love you, I always have and I always will. Sonny loves you too. Make sure you give Joseph, Mom, Dad and Frank a big hug and kiss for us. Rest In Peace Jerry. Love always, Mary.