Ventura "Venny" Franco, Jr., 87, of Varley St., died January 1, 2008 after a brief illness. He was the husband of the late Mary C. (Paulo) Franco. Born in Fall River, he was a son of the late Ventura & Mary M. (Silva) Franco. He was an Army Veteran of World War II. He worked at the former Arkwright Finishing Co., where he was active in AFL-CIO Union, serving as shop steward & other positions. He served many years on the Board of Directors of St. Anthony of Padua Credit Union. Active in youth activities such as PAL & Little League, he was a referee, umpire & coach. He was also a volunteer tax preparer for senior citizens. Father of Ronald Franco, Joyce Swanson, Arleen Franco & the late Paul Franco, Vavo of Lindsey & Matthew Swanson and Carissa & Daniel Franco, Brother of Joseph Franco, Delores McGarr & the late Angelina Costa, Rose Farias, Mary Machado, Beatrice Viera, James Franco, Joao Franco & John Franco. He also leaves many nieces and nephews. His funeral was celebrated at St. Anthony of Padua Church on January 7th. Committal services followed at Notre Dame Cemetery. Pallbearers were Matthew Swanson, Daniel Franco, Kevin and David Costa, Peter Cullen and James Robitaille. Donations in his memory may be sent to Mass. Veterans, Inc., 69 Grove St., Worcester, MA 01605.