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Daniel Franc Obituary
Daniel learned the Boston subway system at a very young age, exploring the city on his dad's shoulders. People were surprised that he could give detailed instructions on how to navigate from any point in Boston. His work in tourism and customer service as an adult was a natural progression.
He was a talented songwriter and a skilled guitar player and singer. Off he would go to play at open mics in Boston and Cambridge, headphones draped around his neck, his guitar at hand, a book and lyric notebook tucked away, wearing his beloved scally cap. His music friendships meant everything to him.
Daniel was an alumnus of Cambridge Friends School, The Roxbury Latin School, and UMass Amherst. From his earliest connections, he established lifelong friends.
Daniel was passionate about history, his major in college. An avid reader, he was exceptionally knowledgeable about American history, especially the World Wars, which he could discuss with precision. Watching a historical movie with Daniel meant being interrupted occasionally for him to explain the "real" facts. At a young age, his interests included the sinking of the Titanic, studying the ship and its people, and creating drawings as a way of learning. His travels to Normandy, France, and several places in Canada were favorite times.
He is survived by his mother, Carol Keller; father, Timothy Franc; aunt, Heather Franc; uncle, John Franc; uncle and aunt, Arnie and Charlotte Keller; aunt and uncle, Lyn Keller Apicella and Greg; and numerous cousins and friends. He will always be remembered for his love and kindness.
Daniel was born with a growth disorder, Russell-Silver Syndrome, that is characterized by short stature. His association with the Magic Foundation for medical and social connection was one of the most important pieces in his life. In lieu of flowers, a donation in memory of Daniel can be made to the MAGIC Foundation at www.magicfoundation.org.
A celebration of life will be held at Cambridge Friends School, 5 Cadbury Road, Cambridge, MA 02140, on October 26, 2024, from 3 PM-4:30 PM (parking lot entrance). Friends and family are invited to attend (casual dress).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Alice Chiang
October 26, 2024
Nick and I met Carol and Daniel when we moved next door in 2020. Carol and Daniel were warm and welcoming, and they were very patient with our new dog that we had recently adopted. (She barked nearly every time she saw them the first few months until she adjusted and then would welcome seeing them.) We really enjoyed talking with Daniel and learning more about him.
Our deepest condolences to his family. We've contributed to the MAGIC Foundation in Daniel's memory.
Jen Keller Reilly
October 25, 2024
Jen Keller Reilly
October 25, 2024
Jade
October 25, 2024
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Nicole Lepre
October 25, 2024
Danny was one of the warmest people. His music´s openness and sincerity left an impression on me right away. He was the same way. I´ll be listening to his music, listening to Green Day, and wearing my guitar really low for him. I have been playing his song "California" lately. I'll miss seeing him play it live. I'm grateful for the times he borrowed my guitar for his set and I am lucky to have known him.
Amber Weinstock
October 16, 2024
Danny's smile. Infectious with joy and ever-genuine. That he called his music project The Better End is quite fitting. Danny was one of the most sincere people I have ever known, and it really came through in his songs, kindness, and curiosity. Danny encouraged me to come out of my shell, and to go outside! To play and share my music. He was a force of boundless validation and motivation and enhanced my experience living in Boston. I will always be grateful for him moving me up the open mic lists and connecting me with the community. I will keep listening to and singing his songs. Danny: "It's not the song I thought I'd write for you, but I finally wrote this simple song for you."
Ed Ellison
October 3, 2024
Dan was a student of mine at The Roxbury Latin School. I remember him as an incredibly curious and considerate young man. Dan loved a great story and it is no surprise to me that history and music became his two passions. He left a positive impression on everyone who knew him. My prayers are with his loved ones.
Phoenix Campagnuolo
October 3, 2024
I met Danny after seeing him perform, and immediately offered to play in his band. I could tell right away that he was a gifted song writer. Soon enough, he was introducing me to all the local open mics and the wonderful community of artists. He would come over to teach me his songs, and I would help arrange them for our four piece band.
All of my Boston area friends and all the local bands I play in are a direct result of meeting Danny. He truly brought people together and I owe him a lot. The remaining members of The Better End will keep the songs that he shared with us alive.
Grant Scobbie
September 25, 2024
I can´t remember my first memory, because I was to young to remember but according to my parents. Every MAGIC conference, when the kids would go out to the Zoo, Amusement park, etc. both Daniel and Ricky looked out for me.
Eva Joly
September 24, 2024
Carol and Tim,
Writing to you with my love and thoughts. I´m thinking of the patient and detailed explanations Daniel gave me of games and projects he was engrossed in whenever I would come over to babysit, and his sheer enjoyment once we got down to the business of playing. I can only imagine what a thoughtful and engaged young person and man he grew up to be.
Allison Kussmann
September 21, 2024
I remember when I walked into one of the many open mic places I met Danny, he was so excited to learn that I had stickers available for my music that he bought one immediately and proudly stuck on his personal guitar. He wasted no time in parading around showing off his prized new sticker that meant more to me than the $1 he handed me with a smile.
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