August Joseph Franze

Colonie – August “Gus” Joseph Franze, 98, of Colonie, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Albany and graduated from CBA. Gus was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Frances Franze, his sister Anna Theresa Franze and his daughter in law, Kimberly Franze. Gus was a Gunner in the US Navy during WWII, serving on the USS New Jersey BB62 in the Pacific Theatre. His detail assisted in the landings of Okinawa & Iwo Jima.

Gus worked for his Dad’s produce company and it was during a delivery that he met his future bride of 73 years, Carmela Regina Franze. They have enjoyed a wonderful lifelong legacy of love. Gus had worked for forty years with the A&P Tea Co. as a manager. He was a member of the Colonie Elks and was an avid New York Yankee fan. He will be remembered as a kind, loving, and patient family man.

Gus is the devoted father of Joseph A. (Joanne) Franze, August F. (Cheryl) Franze, John C. Franze (Dina Merritt Franze), Richard J. (Nancy) Franze, Lisa (Thomas) Malinowski and Marianne (Paul) DuCharme. He is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 1 great great granddaughter.

The family offers special thanks to Gus’ “angels of mercy”, hospice nurse, Laura and home health aide, Penny.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial on Monday at 12 noon at St. Clare’s Church, 1947 Central Ave. Colonie. Interment will follow at Saratoga National VA Cemetery Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers and in keeping with the cemetery floral restrictions, please consider memorial contributions to the Disabled American Veterans, (secure.dav.org) 245 Houston St. Rm 204, New York, NY 10014. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

“Well done, good and faithful servant”