Francesco “Franco” Zucco passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, April 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on March 11, 1934, in a small town in Reggio Calabria, Italy, to his parents Carmelo Zucco and Maria Carmela Sansotta. As the firstborn, he helped lead a growing family that included his three younger brothers, Domenico, Cosimo, and Antonio. He was predeceased by his infant sister.

On June 2, 1957, he married the love of his life, Gilda Zucco. Determined to build a better future, Franco and Gilda immigrated to Canada with their young daughter Maria, eventually settling in Ottawa in April 1960. With the support of family, they began building a new life together and welcomed three more children: Susan, Pat, and Frank Jr.

Franco was a hardworking and resourceful man who spent many years in construction. He had a deep curiosity and a passion for learning, often creating his own tools when he couldn’t find what he needed. Many will fondly remember his homemade tomato sauce machine—if you know, you know.

His desire to learn led him to attend Algonquin College to study drafting. Though he did not complete the program due to his commitment to providing for his family, he became a highly skilled cement mason. He also contributed his talents to Kingdom Hall building projects, something he took great pride in.

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Franco had a deep love for God. After being introduced to the Bible’s message, he was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on October 19, 1975. Together with his wife, he raised his family in a strong spiritual environment, regularly opening their home for weekly gatherings. His dedication was unwavering, even on important family days—a memory remembered with both admiration and a smile.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Gilda; his children Maria (Mario Cristalli), Susan (late Corrado Rampulla), Pat, and Frank Jr. (Emi); his brothers Cosimo (Rosa), Antonio (late Rosa), and Domenico; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends in Ottawa and Italy.

Franco held firmly to the hope found in the Holy Scriptures, especially the promise at Revelation 21:3—that one day, at Jehovah’s appointed time, he will be reunited with loved ones here on earth, restored to vibrant health in a peaceful world as God originally intended.

He will be remembered for his strength, his faith, his craftsmanship, and his unwavering devotion to his family.

He will be missed by all who knew him.