John Stephen Franklin, 69, of Montrose, Iowa, passed away at 3:50 p.m. Wednesday, November 23, 2022, at St. Luke’s Hospital In Cedar Rapids.
Born on July 25, 1953, in Keosauqua, Iowa the son of Robert Earl and Guida Mae (Brewer) Franklin. In 1976 he married Ila M. Rockhold in Kahoka, Missouri, she preceded him in death on September 29, 2014.
Survivors include two brothers: General Grant Franklin of Montrose and Gary Franklin of Keosauqua; Special friend Barb Jacobs and her children and grandchildren; four sisters-in law: Martha (Lafe), Ruthie, Lillie, and Carol; Granddaughter Mandie McKay, whom he considered his daughter; three step-sons: Gary Biggs, Bryan Biggs, and Bruce Biggs. Also surviving are several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by parents; wife: Ila; one grandson; three brothers: Dick, Leo, and Bobby Franklin; one nephew Pearson Franklin; and three sisters-in law.
John was a 1971 graduate of Van Buren Community High School, he retired from Silgan Container after over thirty years. John was a very gifted woodworker and locksmith. He enjoyed racing, WWF wrestling, traveling, and reminiscing about the past, he always put his loved ones first and told them “ I love you”.
Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 30, 2022 at Schmitz Funeral Home in Donnellson.
A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 30, 2022 at Schmitz Funeral Home in Donnellson, with Reverend John Franklin Heath officiating.
Burial will be at Granger Cemetery in Arbela, Missouri.
A memorial has been established in his memory for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Schmitz Funeral Home of Donnellson is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at schmitzfuneralhomes.com