Franz, James Milo

James M. Franz, 67, of Blacksburg, Va., passed away early on Friday, July 4, 2008. He was born in Hot Springs, Ark.

After receiving a masters degree from the University of Arkansas, he joined IBM.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Jeanine F. Franz; his two sons, Christopher and Andrew; his grandson, Gavin; his nephew, John Greenwood and family; and his niece, Susan Dickenson and family.

James spent his career as a computer programmer mostly in the Washington, D.C., area. The last 28 years of his career were spent in the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS) before retirement in 2003. After retirement he and his wife moved to Blacksburg, Va., to be close to their son and grandson.

A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Sunday, July 13, 2008, at Horne Funeral Service, in Christiansburg, Va. The Franz family is being served by Horne Funeral Service, Christiansburg, Va. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.hornefuneralservice.com.