Dale B. Francisco

Colonie - Dale Bernard Francisco, 71, was peacefully called home to the Lord on October 24, 2018, with his wife by his side, in Thonotosassa, Florida.  He was born May 19, 1947, in Ithaca, New York to the late Calvin H. Francisco and Elida Mae (Hesse) Francisco.  He grew up in St. Johnsville, New York and later moved with his family to Colonie, New York in 1965.

Dale was a member of the St. Johnsville Reformed Church growing up, and then Community Reformed Church of Colonie.  He is survived by his loving wife of 8 years, Nancy Harris Francisco, his younger sister Dawn E. Schweikert (Adam), his 3 daughters Jillian A. Wrieden (Gregory), Melissa D. Francisco, Casey L. O’Leary (Ian) and his 4 grandchildren Abigail N. Wrieden, Emma C. Wrieden, Evelynne R. Wilson and Steven J. Wilson.

Dale was the President of his high school class at St. Johnsville High and went on to attend Ohio State University, then Siena College, pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine.  Not having the heart to put an animal down, however, Dale moved into veterinary medicine and supply sales, and remained in various aspects of sales throughout his life.  He was best known for his athleticism and love of sports – especially baseball – excelling at the game from the time he could walk.  There was never a ball he couldn’t hit or fly he couldn’t chase down, and a great highlight of his life was meeting his idol, Willie Mays #24.  Dale was an eagle scout and loved all animals, especially his dogs and horses.  He attended professional umpire school in Florida for a time and played twilight league baseball for many years.  Dale was a bowler and recorded numerous perfect 300 games.  He loved football, basketball, softball, tennis and golf, playing all of them at one time or another in his life.  As he got older, he channeled his love of baseball to umpiring, becoming Umpire-in-Chief of the Upper New York State Umpire Association (UNYSUA), training and umpiring all levels of baseball in the Capital District and ultimately, was honored to be selected to umpire in the Babe Ruth World Series, held in Clifton Park.  Dale was smart, funny and loved by his many friends and family.  He was not only the best father and husband, but the best big brother ever. 

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Dale’s family on Sunday, November 11, 2018, from 1:00 to 3:00, with a memorial service to follow at 3:00, at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Avenue, Colonie, New York.  A private burial will be held Monday, November 12, 2018, at Memory Gardens.  Memorial contributions can be made to the APF, local German Shepherd or French Bulldog rescue in Dale’s name. To leave a message of condolence for the family or to order flowers, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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