In Memory

Dwight Franke - Class Of 1983

FUHS Class of 1983
 

Dwight Robert Franke
BIRTH: November 13, 1964
DEATH: May 26, 2017 (aged 52)
BURIAL Metamora Cemetery Metamora, Lapeer County, Michigan, USA

In his home in Metamora, MI, Dwight Robert Franke, age 52, passed away suddenly from a massive heart attack on Friday, May 26, 2017. His wife and three sons surrounded him.
Dwight was born in Redondo Beach, CA, on November 13, 1964. He grew up in Fullerton, CA, where he played football for Fullerton High School, Fullerton College and had a full athletic scholarship for Eastern New Mexico University. Dwight graduated from college in 1988 with a BA in Business. He went to work for Ideal Anodizing and became the top salesman. Later he and LaDonna joined forces and have worked to build up and run a real estate management division.
Dwight married the love of his life on June 29, 1991, in Anaheim Hills, CA. Dwight is survived by his dear wife, LaDonna Baxter Franke, loving sons Forrest, Hayden, Connor, and his faithful dog, Jet. All of whom he called his best friends. His mother, Marilyn Claire Franke, his sisters Christine Greenleaf, Andrea Rasmussen, Megan (Scott) Poulsen, Allison (Chris)  Cowdell, and ten nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his father, Clarence G. Franke.
Services in honor and celebration of his life were held Saturday, June 3, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Michigan.

Would you mind sending your written memories and love of Dwight to be cherished by his wife and sons in place of flowers?
This best friend and Daddy is missed more than words can ever express. Dwight will be remembered as a friendly, loving, joyful man who could make those around him feel happy and worthwhile. He treasured his family and was devoted to them.
Dwight and LaDonna were inseparable. He daily told his wife how beautiful she was to him. LaDonna says their relationship was magical and that he was quick to ask for forgiveness and to forgive. They worked together as a team at home and in business. Dwight loved to cook, sing, and laugh. He had a great sense of humor and made everyone he knew feel like his friend. His spirit continues to fill their home with love and peace even though he is not there physically. He was faithful to his God, his family, and a fierce defender of freedom.
Unfazed by political correctness, Dwight shared his thoughts on God, family, and country with all he met and had a significant presence on Facebook, where he had developed friendships with people all over. He freely shared the gospel and love with all. His sister writes: Dwight was an abundantly loving husband, father, brother, and son who hugged and kissed his family at every greeting and parting. He was full of joy, seeing the good in all people and things. He had a gift for making people feel joy and laughter in his presence. He was a gentle giant who made his mark here on earth in a way that we will be forever grateful for having been in his company.
May we all smile with our fond memories of Dwight.


(obituary submitted by Mark Strait, FUHS 1977)







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