Donald G. Franzen, 77, of Merrill, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, November 29, 2012 at Ministry Good Samaritan Health Center.
He was born December 27, 1934 to the late George & Violet (Jeschke) Franzen in Chicago, IL. On May 25, 1957 he and Sherida “Jean” Ward were united in marriage in Chicago.
Donald served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War from 1953-1958. He worked at Brickners as a mechanic for many years. In his spare time, Donald enjoyed leather crafting and wood working. He was a fan of off road racing and enjoyed working in his garage. Most importantly, Donald cherished time spent with his family and with the family dog, Angel. He was a member of St. John Baptist Church in Gleason. Donald was a Member of the Knights of Columbus serving as a 4th Degree Honor Guard. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and Boy Scouts of America.
Survivors include his wife, Jean Franzen, Merrill; Five children: Roger (Linda) Franzen, Scott (Dawn) Franzen, Carol (Jerry) Cortright, Larry (Andrea) Scolley, Dennis (Heather) Scolley; 14 grandchildren: Carrie Franzen, Jenny (Jason) Schulz, Loni Young, Stephanie Young, Tammera Graap, Kenna Smith, Nick (Kayla) Franzen, Tyler Franzen, Logan Franzen, Keaton Scolley, Aiden Scolley, Aiyana Scolley, Kambrie Scolley & Aubri Scolley; 9 great-grandchildren: Carlie Franzen, Collin Franzen, Dezi Schulz, Ryan Schulz, Jordan Erickson, Violet Weiss, Jenna Weiss, Destiny Weiss & Aceson Graap; sister: Barb (Thomas) Schwager, a sister-in-law and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents: George & Violet Franzen; son: Thomas G. Franzen and grandchildren: Jonathan Franzen and Jerome Franzen.
Funeral Mass will be 11:00 AM Monday, December 3, 2012 at St. John Baptist Church, Gleason. Father Ronald Serrao will officiate. Military honors will be presented by VFW Post #1638. Visitation will be from 4-8 PM Sunday, December 2, 2012 at Waid Funeral Home and again from 10-11 AM Monday before the service at the church. Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online tributes may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.