Richard "Rick" Peter Franz, Jr.

Dec 21, 1949 – Jan 30, 2017 (Age 67)

Died unexpectedly on January 30, 2017 at the age of 67.  Lifelong resident of Whitefish Bay.  Son of the late Richard and Marjorie Franz and son-in-law of the late Marion and Larry Clark. Beloved husband for 44 years and best friend of Gayl (Nee Clark) Franz.  Loving father of Jennifer (Chris) Latimer, Julie (Mike) Klein and Carolyn Franz.  Proud "Pots" of Hailey, Billy, Peter, Caitlyn, James and Lily. Dear brother of Steven (Patti) Franz and Gary (Dawn) Franz.  Brother-in-law of Lynne (David) Nordhoff and the late Paul Clark.  Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, good friends and his loyal companion's "Gertie" and the late "Wilson".  Rick was a well respected member of the Steamfitters Local #601.  He worked tirelessly until the age of 59 when he retired to spend more time with family and projects that he loved at our little piece of heaven in Door County.  Rick spent many hours nurturing his vast gardens and creating endless hours of family activities including campfires, cooking, boating, water sports, 4 wheeling, kayaking, go-carting, and building a frog pond for the grandkids, just to name a few.  Rick was happiest when surrounded by his family or helping a neighbor or friend.  He was a loving, kind, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to all.  Rick was thoughtful, generous, hard working, inventive, forever calm, and stalwart.  He always led by example and found the teachable moment in all situations.  He taught us all to be gentle and never careless, respect your surroundings and replace any fear or uncertainty with a curiosity to learn more.  Rick will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.  Rick's legacy can be best carried on by telling someone you're proud of them; striking up a conversation with a total stranger; starting a project, "even if you don't finish it"; or lending a helping hand, without recognition.  A memorial service honoring Rick's life will take place on Saturday, February 4, at 12:00 PM at North Shore Congregational Church, 7330 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Fox Point. Family will greet friends following the service.  Memorials in Rick's name may be made to the 4-H Club, 421 Nebraska Street, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235.

Published in Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Feb. 2 to Feb. 3, 2017