Edward Lafranchi

Edward "Ed" Alvin Lafranchi of Livermore died Feb. 5. He was 85.

LaFranchi was born in Petaluma, Calif., on July 23, 1928 to Fridolino and Zelma LaFranchi. He was raised in Nicasio on his family's dairy and attended Nicasio elementary school. He graduated from St. Anselm High School and later from Santa Clara University with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering.

Upon graduation in 1950, he went to work for Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. He enlisted during the Korean War, spending 1951 to 1953 in the U.S. Air Force. Upon discharge, he resumed his job at LBNL and then transferred in 1953 to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as one of the Lab's earliest employees. LaFranchi held numerous positions at LLNL, eventually retiring in 1991 as deputy associate director of the Engineering Directorate.

LaFranchi was a devoted member of the St. Michael Catholic community. A long-time member of the Knights of Columbus, one of the original Lectors and later Eucharistic ministers, he was responsible for training new volunteers in these duties until his death. At various times, he chaired the parish council, was president of CCD and later led the legacy fund to build the parish education center.

He enjoyed golfing, except when he couldn't hit the ball; attending the 49er games, but only when they won; tasting good wines, always; deer hunting with his family; playing bridge and most especially sharing a cocktail every evening before dinner with his beloved wife of 59 years, Ann.

LaFranchi is survived by his wife Ann (nee Rogers); three sons, Bruce (Judy) of New York, Mark of Walnut Creek and Paul (Mary Jo) of Torrance; four grandchildren, Brian, Brendan, Daniel and Melissa; and a large extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Fridolino and Zelma (nee Dolcini) and siblings Estella, Wilfred, Henry and Arthur.

Visitation will be held Sunday, Feb. 9, from 4-8 p.m. at Callaghan Mortuary, 3833 East Avenue, Livermore, including a vigil service at 7 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend the mass of Christian burial, 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 10 at St. Michael Catholic Church, 458 Maple Street.

The family prefers memorials to St. Michael School, Valley Care Health Library, Santa Clara University or a charity of your choice.