Gary A. Franko, 79 of Hermitage, passed away peacefully Thursday morning, June 1, 2023, in Saint John XXIII Home.

Mr. Franko was born August 12, 1943, in Farrell, a son of the late Albert and Jenny (Locnikar) Franko.  He was a 1961 graduate of Farrell High School.  Gary was on the 1960 state championship basketball team and earned a basketball scholarship to John Carroll University, where he graduated in 1966 with a BS in Education.

Gary was employed by the Farrell Area School District as a reading teacher.  He retired after 35 years of service.

His hobbies included playing bocce and golf.  Gary enjoyed volunteering at the Farrell school's basketball games and helping young golfers at Tam O'Shanter golf course.

Gary is survived by an aunt, Pauline Sostarich, Hermitage; and several cousins,

Aleta Kudelko (John), Shenango Twp., Johnathan Kudelko (Sarah), Hermitage, Jill Locnikar (Bradley), Pittsburgh, Janice Barella, Boynton Beach, FL, Judith (Locnikar) (George) Puntureri, FL, Beth Schaffler (Donald), Eden, NY, Cindy Abulone (Michael), Hamburg, NY, and Dr. Steven Locnikar, Scottsdale, AZ.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com

Per Gary's request, there will be no calling hours or service.

Interment: St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Farrell.