Mr. Thomas J. "Tex" Franco, 65, of William Street, Herkimer, passed away on Sunday evening, May 15, 2005, in Valley Health Services, Herkimer, with the love and support of his family at his side. Born on December 11, 1939, in Herkimer, he was a son of the late Thomas and Virginia (Palladini) Franco, and was educated in the Herkimer Central School District. His last professional employment was with Union Fork and Hoe in Frankfort, retiring in 1986. An active member of the village of Herkimer, he was an honorary member of the Tony R. George Post, member of the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club, Herkimer Polish Club and the Herkimer Rod and Gun Club. Tom was a family man deeply dedicated to his loved ones and always remaining a constant and caring presence in their lives. In addition to his family interests and concerns, he enjoyed the great outdoors. An excellent cook and talented wine maker his family fondly recalls the wonderful recipes that he generously shared with everyone. Greatly loved and respected by all who knew him, he will be dearly missed. He leaves his seven beloved brothers and sisters, Edward and Anne Franco of Grosse Pointe Park, MI, Rita Cassella and Raymond Briggs of Herkimer, Rocco and Rosemarie Franco of Schenectady, John and Roseann Franco of Herkimer, Peter and Joan Franco of Frankfort, Mary E. Franco of Herkimer and Raymond and Olga Franco of Warren, MI. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who were affectionately known as Tom's "pals," many cousins and close friends. Tom, in addition to his parents, was predeceased by his brother, Joseph, and his brother-in-law, Anthony "Pop" Cassella. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Holleran & Enea Funeral Home, 220 N. Washington St., Herkimer, on Tuesday (today), May 17, from 4-8 p.m. Tom's funeral will be held on Wednesday, May 18, commencing at 9:15 a.m. from the chapel of the funeral home where prayer will be offered. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. from Sts. Anthony and Joseph Church, South Main Street, Herkimer, with the Rev. Anthony Ligato, pastor, officiating. Procession will follow to Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer, where he will be laid to rest. Kindly consider having a mass said in Tom's memory; mass cards are available at the funeral home. The family feels grateful to the doctors, nurses and staff at valley Health Services, Herkimer, who have been of great assistance and comfort, offering Tom and his family support and peace of mind. For directions to the funeral home, click the facilities link above.