Dayton OH “Franco’s Ristorante Italiano” Owner Franco Germano Passes Away

“Magnifico!” chef and restaurant owner, Franco Germano, of Franco’s Ristorante Italiano, has passed away.

Germano, the owner of Franco’s Ristorante Italiano in the Oregon District, died on Sunday, confirmed daytondailynews.

The owner of the popular Italian restaurant grew up in Duronia, Italy, where he developed an expansive knowledge and passion for food.

He opened his restaurant at 824 E. Fifth St. in Dayton in October 1976 when he was 31 years old.

Germano was an avid golfer, who played two or three times per week at the Community Golf Course. He also loved soccer, both playing the sport and coaching youth, high school and college soccer.

His son, Nick Germano, posted a commemorative photo of his father cooking at his restaurant. “My dad doing what he loved to do. He can now rest in peace. Love you Dad,” he wrote.