Francis G Gradel

Francis was predeceased by his beloved wife Marie and his son Peter. He is survived by his loving children, Francis Jr. and his wife Margaret and Marianne Williams and her husband David. He is also survived by his 8 grandchildren and his 15 great-grandchildren.

Francis was a proud veteran of WWII, serving his country in the U.S. Army as a tank driver. He was awarded 2 purple hearts for his acts of bravery.

He retired from the Philadelphia Inquirer after 30+ years of employment as a picture researcher.

He was a gifted artist, especially in water colors, and a creative wood carver. When his boys were young, Francis was a Boy Scout Master, after his boys completed their time with the Boy Scouts, he continued to volunteer as a Master for over 20+ years.

A memorial visitation will be held 10:00 am on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 with a 11:15am Mass at St. Christopher's Catholic Church, 13301 Proctor Ave Philadelphia, PA. Committal service will follow at 1:00pm at St. Dominic's Catholic Church Cemetery, 8504 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA.

To leave online condolences and fond memories of Francis for the family, please visit www.shinnfuneralhome.com

Thos L. Shinn Funeral Home, 10 Hilliard Dr., Manahawkin, NJ was entrusted with the funeral arrangements.