Richard Macario Franco passed away on Friday, October 20, 2017 at 21:40 pm.

He was born on April 17, 1945 to Macario Franco and Rose Martinez in Deadwood, South Dakota. He is survived by his children, De and Leah; siblings, Vincent, Renee, and Reggie; nieces and nephews, Brandon, Ariana, Josh, and Desiree; grandchildren, Katrina, Brayden, Patrick, and Alexsander; and his dog Mattie, who had been his best friend and companion for many years.

He was preceded in death by his father, Macario and mother, Rose.

He served in the Army from May 1966 to May 1968 as part of Company A, 1st Battalion, 10th Infantry. After coming home, he became a construction worker with the Iron Workers Union and worked on bridges and high-rises throughout North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Washington, and Colorado. Then he settled in Lead, SD where he worked for the city until retirement.

He was one of the original State Charter Members of Vietnam Vets Legacy Vets Black Hills. A membership that was maintained in good standing, to which he formed solid friendships and an extended family built upon a foundation of love, respect, and brotherhood.

His life was defined by his friendships, his passions, and his family. He loved fishing, hunting, riding and building motorcycles, restoring vintage cars, gold panning, and collecting antiques.

Services will be held on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at Black Hills National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. with Chaplin Patrick Lewellen officiating. Military honors will be rendered by the Sturgis Volunteer Honor Guard.

There will be a reception immediately following the service at the VFW in Deadwood.