HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY John D. Francosky

Born: July 9, 1908, in Youngstown, one of 10 children born to Mana (Mary) and Daniel Francosky.

Siblings: Five died in infancy or early childhood, and two sisters, Helen Surry and Mary Erb, died more recently. Surviving are a sister, Irene Skerkavich, and a brother, Daniel Francosky, both of Youngstown.

Younger years: Grew up on Eddie Street on the West Side, attended Stambaugh Grade School and graduated at age 17 from South High School.

Married: Helen Herchik on Oct. 28, 1930, and they had three daughters, Helen Holmes of Youngstown and Jane Organ of Cortland, whose twin, Joanne Dobranchin, died in February 1989.

Offspring: Nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Employment: Was a machinist by trade. When he was 16, he began an apprenticeship at the Ohio Works of Carnegie Steel, where he worked four years. He also worked at Youngstown Sheet and Tube Co. and Aetna Standard, and was later employed as a foreman by United Engineering in New Castle, Pa., When the firm was bought out by Mesta Machine Co., he was hired as a first machinist and later became personnel manager. He ended his career by working for his brother-in-law, Wick Erb, at City Machine on Andrews Avenue until he was well into his 70s.

Activities: Enjoyed singing and was a member of the Youngstown Sheet and Tube Choir for many years. He also played golf and was on a bowling-league team.

Celebrations: A party was given in his honor on Wednesday at Briarfield at Ashley Circle in Austintown, where he resides. He received congratulatory messages from President George Bush, Gov. Ted Strickland, and several congressmen and state representatives. The township administrator also presented a proclamation in his honor. He was joined by family and friends on Saturday for another celebration of his birthday at St. George Byzantine Catholic Church, where he is a member.