Johnnie Von Franchini

Johnnie Franchini was called to Heaven by our Lord Jesus Christ on November 7, 2024. He was born in Bloomfield, NM to John and Wilma (Reid) Franchini on August 14, 1933. Johnnie graduated from Aztec High School in 1952, known for his prowess in basketball and football, and was subsequently selected to serve in the U.S. Army. He met the love of his life and future wife of 64 years, Ida "Lucy" Orne, while stationed in Caribou, ME.

Johnnie started roughnecking in the oilfield during high school, affording him the purchase of his first vehicle, a two-toned 1952 Oldsmobile 88. While attending college, Johnnie worked summers on the construction of Navajo Dam. Johnnie graduated from NMSU with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, after which he started a long-career with El Paso Natural Gas. He also coached local youth baseball for 21 years, leading the El Paso Gassers to a championship game in the Connie Mack World Series.

Johnnie is survived by his sons John Merle, James Charles and Joseph Earl and his nephew Russel Hallet. He was blessed with ten grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many life-long fishing & hunting buddies.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Brewer, Lee & Larkin. The graveside service will be held at Bloomfield Cemetery on November 13th at 11:00 AM. The service will be followed by a Celebration of Life at the Holy Trinity Parish Hall, located at 42 Rd. 3520 in Flora Vista, at 12:30 PM.