Major Christopher J. Franco, U.S. Army

Major Christopher J. Franco, U.S. Army, age 35, of Bluffton, SC succumbed to spinal cancer that developed from a wound received in Afghanistan. He passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2014 under the care of Hospice of Charleston in Mt. Pleasant, SC. Christopher was born on February 19, 1979 in Mt. Kisco, NY. He was an active duty U.S. Army war hero who was loved by all who served under him in battles in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was wounded in battle in Afghanistan and was a recipient of many awards including for Valor in saving soldiers' lives while wounded. He was also a recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Christopher is survived by his wife, Schenette and their children, Vittoria (33 months) and Vincenzo (15 months) named after his fallen soldier Vincenzo Romeo; parents, John and Christine Franco; sisters, Heather and Alexandra Franco; grandfather, Louis Civitella, US Army Veteran; and many adoring aunts, uncles, cousins, and nieces. The family would like to express special thanks to the caring and compassionate staff at the Hospice of Charleston for enriching the last days of Christopher's life. Christopher impacted the lives of many and will forever be remembered for his leadership, kindness and passion for life. The family will be receiving friends & family on Friday, November 7, 2014 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.; Saturday, November 8, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.; and Sunday, November 9, 2014 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Sauls Funeral Home, 90 Simmonsville Road, Bluffton, SC 29910. A funeral mass will be held Monday, November 10, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, 333 Fording Island Road, Bluffton, SC 29909 with burial following at 1:00 p.m. at Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, SC with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Heroes in Transition, 28 Great River Road, Mashpee, MA 02649, and (508)539-1010. Sauls Funeral Home of Bluffton is assisting the family with arrangements. www.saulsfh.com The family will be receiving friends & family on Friday, November 7, 2014 from 1:00 â