Daniel Verne was actor James Franco’s grandfather. He was born in Ohio and had Russian Jewish ancestry. His birth name was Daniel Surad Verovitz. He later changed his surname from Verovitz to Verne. This occurred after 1940.
Daniel was an intelligent, diligent man. He grew up to be a famous oral surgeon. He also guided numerous young physicians as a teacher and mentor.
Quick Facts About Daniel Verne
Full Name | Daniel Surad Verovitz (later changed to Daniel Verne) |
Birthdate | N/A |
Occupation | Oral Surgeon, U.S. Navy Veteran, Dental Educator |
Husband/Wife | Mitzie Levine Verne |
Education | Not publicly disclosed (Medical/Dental training assumed) |
Age | D/A |
Parents | Carroll Verovitz and Bessie G. Surad |
Siblings | Not known |
Children | Betsy Franco (Franco) |
Net Worth | <$1 million |
Grandchildren | James Franco, Tom Franco, Dave Franco |
Cultural Heritage | Russian Jewish ancestry |
His Background and Family
Daniel’s father and mother were Carroll Verovitz and Bessie G. Surad. They were living in the United States, but the family was originally from Russia several years earlier. Daniel’s wife was Mitzie Levine Verne. She was a tough and talented individual as well.
Daniel and Mitzie had a daughter named Betsy Franco together. Betsy turned out to be an author of children’s books and an actress. She then had three sons, James Franco, Tom Franco, and Dave Franco.
His Career as a Surgeon
Daniel was an oral surgeon for most of his years. He also served in the U.S. Navy in the 1940s and 1950s. Following his service, he practiced in Cleveland, Ohio. He became director of a residency program at Mt. Sinai Hospital. There, he assisted in training new dentists.
He was admired by many students. His teachings and his integrity earned him respect in the medical field. Now, there is a program known as the Dr. Daniel Verne Dental Student Mentorship Program that continues his efforts. It assists dental students as he did once.
Mitzie and the Verne Gallery
Daniel’s wife, Mitzie, was also very much a part of the art world. She began the Verne Art Gallery in Cleveland, Ohio. The gallery gained notoriety for its gorgeous Japanese art, particularly Ukiyo-e prints.
Mitzie was also a member of the National Council of Jewish Women. She strived to serve her community and gave many people the pleasure of viewing art, her passion. The Verne Gallery is open today. It is still a Cleveland treasure.
A Proud Family Legacy
Daniel and Mitzie instilled in their family a passion for learning, creativity, and service. These values were taught to their daughter and grandchildren. James Franco has talked much about his background. According to him, it contributed to making him what he is today.
Although the Franco family is not highly religious, they take pride in their Jewish heritage. They feel that their background is a significant aspect of their history.
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Why He Matters Today
Daniel Verne might not be a name everyone recognizes, but his legacy is present. He assisted others in his career as a physician. He offered advice to students who aspired to be dentists. He encouraged his wife’s artistic inclination. He also raised a family that would go on to do great things.
His daughter, Betsy, pursued her dreams. His grandsons became actors, artists, and tellers of tales. All of this demonstrates that Daniel’s legacy endures—not only in his work, but in his family.