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Francis G. "Fran" Katta, 75, of Dunkirk died Wednesday afternoon (April 22, 2009) at Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pa., following a brief illness.

He was born March 18, 1934 in Dunkirk, the son of the late Joseph and Gertrude (Shuart) Katta.

A U.S. Navy veteran from 1953 to 1955, Fran served aboard the USS Roanoke and received the National Defense Service Hedal and Navy Occupation Service Medal.

He retired in 1996 from the city of Dunkirk where he worked as a firefighter, stationed at fire headquarters and assigned to the ladder truck.

His memberships includ-ed St. Hyacinth's R.C. Church, First Ward Falcon Club, Dunkirk Firemen's Club, American Legion Post 62, Pioneer Hook & Ladder and the newly-formed IAFF Alumni (Retired Fire Fighters).

Fran loved his yard work, garden, fishing and most of all, his grandchildren.

Surviving are his children, Jeffrey (Pamela) Katta of Sarasota, FL. Michael (Connie) Katta of Dunkirk, Gary (Lisa) Katta of Fredonia; grandchildren Brian, Zoya, Brandon Katta; step-grandchildren Tyandson, Jessica Fillipovich; a sister, Janet Katta of Dunkirk; brothers Robert (Sandy) Katta of Dunkirk, William (Jean) Katta of Stockton; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Ruth A. (Wysocki) Katta, who died Dec. 28, 2005; a sister, Sheryl Test; and brothers Joseph and Kenneth Katta.

Relatives and friends are welcome to call at the R. Mackowiak Funeral Home Inc., 56 East Doughty Street in Dunkirk today from 2-4 and 7-9, where funeral services will be held Saturday morning at 9:15 and Mass of Christian Buri-al at 10 in St. Hyacinth's R. C. Church. Interment to follow in St. Hyacinth's Cemetery.

Flowers are gratefully declined and memorials can be made in Fran's memory to Lake Shore Humane So-ciety or the Dunkirk Fire Department Dive Team, 311 Eagle Street, Dunkirk.