Camille F. Gallo, lovingly known to friends and family as Franco, departed this life on October 2, 2025, at the age of 56. He leaves behind a legacy filled with love, laughter, and the joy of sharing life’s most flavorful moments.
Born on May 31, 1969, in Paris, France, Franco entered the world while his father was working abroad from their beloved homeland of Italy. When he was just one year old, the family returned to Brindisi, Italy, where Franco grew up surrounded by the warmth of family, tradition, and the beauty of the Adriatic coast. It was in Brindisi that he met the love of his life, Karen, who was serving in the U.S. Navy and stationed there at the time. Their love story began in Italy and blossomed into a lifetime partnership that would take them across oceans and through decades of shared adventures.
Franco and Karen moved to Fort Meade, Maryland, the final duty location for Karen’s service, where they started to build their family, and Alexa and Jess were born. Their journey would later lead them to Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, and eventually to New Carlisle, Ohio, where they made their home for over twenty wonderful years — a home filled with love, laughter, and the comforting aroma of Franco’s cooking.
From a young age, Franco’s passion for food was undeniable. At just thirteen years old, he began working in the culinary world, starting humbly as a dishwasher and rising through the ranks with determination, talent, and an unshakable love for the craft. His time in the Italian Army further honed his skills, as he proudly cooked for high-ranking officers — a role that spoke to both his discipline and his artistry.
In America, Franco wore many hats throughout his life, from machinist to over-the-road truck driver — a testament to his strong work ethic and versatility. Yet it was in the kitchen where he was truly at home. As Head Chef at the Dayton Bicycle Club for many years, and later as the proud owner of his restaurant, Franco the Foodie, he poured his heart into every dish. Cooking was not just his profession — it was his love language, his way of bringing people together.
Franco’s family was the heart of his world. Holidays and family gatherings were joyful celebrations centered around his food and his laughter. Whether in Ohio or back home in Italy, Franco’s cooking had the power to turn every meal into a memory. His daughters, Alexa and Jess, will forever carry with them the lessons he taught — not just in the kitchen, but in life — as he passed down treasured recipes from his beloved mother, Giuseppa Giroldini Gallo, and the importance of family, love, and pride in one’s roots.
Those who knew Franco will never forget his extraordinary personality. He was bold, funny, and wonderfully genuine — a man who spoke his mind, dreamed big, and loved deeply. His confidence, generosity, and spirited nature left an impression wherever he went. Franco was always the first to lend a hand, share a meal, or brighten a day. His laughter was contagious, his presence unforgettable.
Beyond the kitchen, Franco embraced creativity in every form. He found joy in painting, inspired by Bob Ross; in gaming, fishing, and tinkering with remote-controlled cars and drones. Each hobby reflected his curiosity, imagination, and love for life’s simple pleasures.
Franco’s proudest accomplishments were his family and his restaurant — both testaments to his hard work, devotion, and heart. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 33 years, Karen Stover Gallo; his devoted daughters, Alexa and Jess Gallo; his mother, Giuseppa Giroldini Gallo; and his siblings, Antonio, Daniella, Lucia, and Nello Gallo. He is preceded in death by his father, Ernesto Gallo. His passing leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of his family, friends, nieces, nephews, and all who were lucky enough to know his warmth and generosity — including his beloved puppies, Dolce and Charlie.
Though Franco’s earthly journey has come to an end, his spirit remains ever-present — in every shared meal, every laugh, and every story told in his memory. The flavors he created, the love he gave, and the joy he brought will continue to nourish the hearts of those he touched.
Rest in peace, dear Franco. Your love, your laughter, and your legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know you.
Visitation with the family will be held 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Sulphur Grove Church, 7505 Taylorsville Rd, Huber Heights, Ohio, followed by Celebration of life at 5:00 p.m.
Arrangements entrusted to Newcomer Funeral Home, North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road, Dayton. To share a memory of Franco or to leave his family a special message, please sign the online guest book provided.
Sulphur Grove Church
Sulphur Grove Church
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