Eleanor J. La Franchi

ELEANOR LA FRANCHI, at the age of 96 and exactly one month before her 97th birthday, passed away due to complications of pneumonia. Devoted wife of 60 years of the late Bruno La Franchi. Cherished mother of Mel La Franchi (Nancy) of San Rafael and Diane Boccaleoni (Bruno) of Penngrove. Adored grandmother of Deborah Mayne (Kenneth), Kirsten La Franchi, Kimberly La Franchi, Joseph Boccaleoni, and John Boccaleoni (Sharon). Beloved great-grandmother of Elana and Jackie Mayne; Cailin, Tara and Logan Boccaleoni; Gino Boccaleoni. Survived by several nieces and nephews. Eleanor was born in Martinez, but reared and educated in San Rafael, graduating from San Rafael High School. She met and married the love of her life, Bruno, and together they enjoyed 60 years of marriage. They made their life and reared their children in Petaluma. Eleanor had a zest for life, a passion for gardening, and a great love for her family, especially her grandchildren. Over the years, she took several trips with her friends and a special trip to NYC with her granddaughters. She also spent vacation time with Mel and Nancy and their family in Lake Tahoe and Palm Springs as well as a Mother's Day weekend trip to Pismo Beach. Eleanor's love of food was matched by no one, and she was always first in line at family dinners. She had a positive outlook on life and during her seven year battle with cancer, she never complained once. Along with a detailed disposition, she always had a kind word for everyone. Friends and family are invited to attend the Funeral Mass, Tuesday, December 9, 2014 at 11:00 am at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 35 Liberty St., Petaluma. A Visitation will be held on Monday, December 8, 2014 from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm at the PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, 850 Keokuk St., Petaluma. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1451 Guerneville Rd., Ste 220, Santa Rosa, CA 95403. Interment: Calvary Cemetery, 304 Magnolia Ave., Petaluma.