Francis W. "Fran" Taranto

Mr. Francis W. “Fran” Taranto, of Watertown, died Sunday, April 14, 2024 in his home. He was 70. Mr. Taranto was born in Boston, a son the late Anthony "Pat" Taranto and Ruth (Mann) Taranto. 

Francis had many jobs. He worked for Lotus Computer for over ten years as well as Marshall's Department Store.  Fran was an active member of Elliot House and Potter Place. Over the past three decades he was an active member of MCC (Massachusetts Clubhouse Coalition). Many times Fran went to the State House to visit legislators, participate in budget cut hearings, or be part of a march. 

At Elliot House he enjoyed his friends, helping with Meals on Wheels, wii bowling and ping pong as well as day trips. He had fun at many clubhouse social activities, going to restaurants, the NAMI walks and conferences over the years. Fran had a dedicated section in the Elliot House weekly newsletter called " Frannies Funnies" which they plan on continuing. He loved the Red Sox, Patriots, WWW and boxing, dancing and singing karaoke. You could see him often at Franco's in Waltham singing on the weekends. He enjoyed seeing the patrons as well. 

His passion was buying and trading comic books and he had a very large collection. For many years Fran enjoyed being a bell ringer for the Salvation Army. He enjoyed talking with many people that stopped by to put money in the kettle and appreciated when they would bring him a hot drink or something to eat. Fran was a kind, caring, thoughtful and true friend to many. Fran was often the center of attention when he was being himself. He was a parishioner at Saint Charles Borromeo Church in Waltham and in recent years, a parishioner of Saint Patrick’s Church in Watertown.

Fran is survived by his sister, Patricia Taranto; his nephew Craig Martin and niece, Alison Anders, her husband, James; his grandnieces and nephews, Oceana, Olympia Anders and Eden Martin and Garrett Martin, all of Gilbert, Arizona.

Patricia would like to thank his hospice nurse Erin and aide Nicole as well as staff members at Elliot House who truly cared about Fran. 

Patricia would like to thank their cousin Danny for being a great friend as well as others that were there for him. Special thanks to his friend Rose. Rose was always there for Fran and he treasured their over 30 year friendship. She was there for him his last few days and that is a gift she gave to Fran and his family.

Funeral services for Fran were private.