Born on 10/23/1958 in Baja, Mexico, Jose was one of 6 children born to
Guadalupe (Hernandez) and Jose Franco Sr. At approximately 12 years of age, his family moved to the United States.
Jose became infatuated with cars at an early age and bought a 1972 Impala While attending Mar Vista High School. He worked with his uncle in the landscaping business until he took a full-time job with "Chicken of the Sea" Cannery in San Diego.
On December 22, 1979, Jose married the love of his life, Norma {Ramos). Three years later, the couple welcomed their first child, daughter, Elsa. After the cannery closed their doors, he worked a couple of smaller jobs until landing in his chosen career. It was during this time, on November 8, 1987, their son, Jose Franco Ill, was born.
In the late 80's Pepe began working for the MAAC Project (a state funded non- profit organization) working for the betterment of seniors and low income families. While working for the MAAC, he moved up the chain of command and became their General Contractor, until his departure in April of 2009.
That is when he was persuaded to work for RHA, as a Program Inspector. There, the company utilized his vast experience with state law regulations. Pepe worked for them until his diagnosis dictated an early, medical retirement in October of 2014.
In 1999, Pepe was one of seven people who started a car club named "Traffic Classic Cars" based in San Diego. Traffic has more than doubled in size, and has provided quality family time and community outreach throughout the years.
Pepe was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, his
brother, Javier and in-laws Manuel and Francisca Ramos as well as other extended family members. He is survived by his wife, Norma (Ramos), children, Elsa and Jose Ill, son-in-law Jose Gonzalez and the apple of Pepe's eye, granddaughter, Mya.
Pepe's zest for life and love of family will be greatly missed by all who knew and, loved him.
