Robert T. Franchi, Sr.

Robert T. Franchi, 73, of Shrewsbury passed away Tuesday, January 24, 2012 with his family by his side after being stricken ill while vacationing in Florida. Bob was born in Worcester, the son of the late Edward and Christine (Lapriore) Franchi. He graduated from Shrewsbury High School where he was known as the "class clown". Bob had a great personality and sense of humor. He had a quick wit, was never at a loss for words and could bring a smile or laughter to any room upon entering. Bob is survived by his three children, Karen L. Franchi of Shrewsbury, Kimberly C. Pizzarella and her husband Steven of West Boylston and Robert T. Franchi, Jr. and his wife Korine of Shrewsbury; five cherished grandchildren, Steven and Katarina Pizzarella, Nicholas, Alexander and Isabella Franchi; three sisters, Christine "Tina" Franchi of Shrewsbury with whom he lived, Michele Franchi of Shrewsbury and Diane Franchi of Providence, Rhode Island; his former wife, Sally (Stimets) Franchi and a nephew Tyler DeLeon all of Shrewsbury. Many other extended family and friends. Bob owned and operated Franchi Brothers Auto Body on Shrewsbury Street in Worcester with his son Bob Jr. and daughter Karen. A company in business since 1936. A staple on Shrewsbury Street, where one could find Bob standing out front or walking the street. Bob was an extremely talented golfer and a longtime member of Pleasant Valley Country Club winning club championships and many other tournaments over the years. He also had a love of fine automobiles and had been restoring his father's 1938 Ford. He cherished his family, his Italian heritage and will be dearly missed by all. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family, Sunday, January 29, 2012 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street. His celebration of life funeral will be held Monday, January 30th from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in St Anne's Church, 130 Boston Turnpike Road. Burial will follow in Mt. View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA. 01701.