Don Alvado Franco, 83, passed away peacefully at his home on January 31, 2015 after a courageous battle with cancer. His is survived by his lovely wife of 54 years, Jovita, son Bruce (Julie), Miliza Whitfield (Jeff), and Audrey Roberts (Wade) and nine grandchildren who will dearly miss their "Pop Pop." Don was the eldest of 11 children of the late Errol and Esme Franco. He was born in the Caribbean island of Trinidad where he attended high school at St. Mary's College. He received his diploma of Agriculture and Animal Science from Ontario Agricultural College, Guelph, Ontario. He then graduated from the University of Philippines as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. He received a Master's degree of Public Health from Emory University in Atlanta, Ga. Don began his veterinary practice in Trinidad with his mentor Dr. Steve Bennett until he accepted a position with the United States Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection, and eventually Director of Slaughter Operations. During this time he was elected President of National Association of Federal Veterinarians, 1979-1980. On retirement from the US government, he served as Vice President of Scientific Services and President of Animal Protein Producers for National Renderers Association. Don was well published and authored many books from veterinary and animal pathology textbooks to publications on the plight of poverty and public health needs in third - world countries. He truly lived by his motto, "education is not for school, but for life." A true gentleman and scholar, Don's love of the written word and his master of the spoken word were unmatched. He had the rare ability to make people feel instantly loved and welcomed. He valued family and his strong Catholic faith. Don found joy in many things but especially in his love of education, travel, books, and college football Saturday. A viewing will be held Tuesday, February 3 from 6 to 8 pm at Palm West Funeral Home, 110 Business Park Way, Royal Palm Beach, FL. Mass and funeral services will be Wednesday, February 4, St Rita Catholic Church, 13645 Paddock Drive, Wellington, FL, 33414. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Diocese of Buea, C/O Father Wilfred Emeh, Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 1728 Oxmoor Rd, Birmingham, AL 35209.
