Cad Harris, Franco Harris’s father, was an American soldier who served in World War II. Franco Harris, a great Pittsburgh Steelers fullback, died unexpectedly on December 20, 2022, at the age of 72. The four-time Super Bowl winner died just three days before the “Immaculate Reception’s” 50th anniversary; the reason for death remains unknown.
Franco was planning to attend a ceremony to retire his No. 32 jersey on Christmas Eve, during the Steelers’ game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
In a statement issued just two days after the NFL lost one of its most influential players in history, Franco’s family stated that he symbolized kindness, philanthropy, decency, and humility in addition to an outstanding career with the NFL.
Meet Franco Harris’s Father, Cad Harris
On March 7, 1950, Franco was born to his father, Cad Harris, and mother, Gina Parenti Harris.
Cad, his father, was a Black soldier in World War II.
He was stationed in Italy during the war, where he met Gina, his future wife, an Italian native who was a “war bride” who eventually emigrated to the United States with Cad.
Daniela, Mario, Franco, Marisa, Alvara, Luana, Piero, Giuseppe, and Michele were the couple’s next nine children.
Cad died on July 17, 1980, at the age of 60, and Gina died on July 15, 1984. She was 86 years old.
Where Did the Franco-Harris Family Come From?
As previously stated, Franco was born to an Italian mother and a Black father.
Because of his Italian origin, his most ardent fans established an organization known as “Franco’s Italian Army,” according to Vault.
According to the publication, his supporters are a boisterous ethnic group dressed in khaki helmet liners that wave Italian flags while sipping wine and cheese during Steelers games.
Although Franco’s religious convictions are unknown, the title of his well-known play, which premiered on December 23, 1972, includes biblical terminology.
At the time, Pittsburgh’s famous local sportscaster Myron Cope stated that the Feast of the Immaculate Reception would begin on December 23.
Rev. Lou Vallone of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, a retired Catholic priest, told Fox 6 News that the “Immaculate Reception” acted as a “cultural rallying point” for the faith.
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What Is Franco Harris’s Net Worth?
Franco Harris’ net worth was $3 million at the time of his death, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Despite being in the Hall of Fame, Harris’ career peaked in the 1970s, long before the era of huge football contracts valued up to $50 million.
According to Steelers UK, a Steelers history website run by a passionate fan, Harris’ salary in 1977 was $178,250, less than the $200,000 stated for quarterback Terry Bradshaw.
According to N.B.C. News, quarterbacks will be paid the most on most clubs in 2022.
The top ten NFL earners are still in place this year, with Kirk Cousins of the Minnesota Vikings ranking 10th with $35 million and Aaron Rodgers ranking first with $50.3 million.
