Troy Daily News

August 17, 1933 

FRANCONY, ALONZO - Alonzo Francony, 94, one of the five remaining Civil war veterans, died at his home, 722 south Downing street, Piqua, Tuesday morning following an illness of two weeks.  As a member of Company I, 23rd Indiana Infantry, Francony was one of the few survivors of the troops who participated in the historic "Sherman's March to the Sea," in 1864.  He was born in New Albany, Ind., on Dec. 9, 1838, and spent his boyhood days in that city.  When the Civil war broke out, he enlisted with Company I, 23rd Indiana Infantry, and served three years and four months.  Mr. Francony had been a resident of Piqua for the last 40 years, having moved here from Cincinnati when the American Rolling Mills were established in this city.  Despite his advanced years, he possessed a remarkable memory, keen wit and was admired by his many, many friends and acquaintances.  One of his final requests was that he be buried with military honors, members of the Paul Schnell Post 184 American Legion being pall bearers, the post also furnishing a firing squad and two buglers for the rites.  This request has been granted with Post Commander Raymond Kippert being in charge of the detail from the local post in charge of the arrangements.  Besides his widow, Mrs. Sarah Francony, two sons, four daughters and 12 grandchildren survive him.  Funeral services will be conducted at the late home Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock with Rev. C. L. Flory officiating.  Burial will be made at Forest Hill cemetery. 

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