Well-Known Pittsburgh Bartender Bill Franceschini Dies

PITTSBURGH, PA — When Bill Franceschini was behind the bar, you usually didn't just get a drink when ordering. You almost always also got a smile that telegraphed his gregarious personality, a smile that his many customers and friends will miss.

"Heaven just got a hell of a bartender," his son, Angelo Franceschini, said in a Facebook post.

Mr. Franceschini died Monday, a day after his 63rd birthday. He had tended bar for decades at several East End taverns, including the former Murray Street Cafe (now the Murray Avenue Grill) and the former Silky's, both in Squirrel Hill. Most recently, he worked at Silky's Pub in Bloomfield.

He also was a well-known figure in Greenfield, where he lived his entire life.

"He love the spirit and camaraderie of the community," his full obituary stated. "Bill leaves behind many friends that he wholeheartedly cherished along with his band of childhood-high school friends he called his brothers."

Friends will be received Friday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Edward P. Kanai Funeral Home in Greenfield. The family also will welcome friends at Silky's Pub on Friday beginning at 6 p.m.

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