DONALD FRANKLIN
A man can wear many “hats” during his lifetime. Son, grandson, brother, cousin, nephew, uncle, brother-in-law, husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, grandfather-in-law, great grandfather, farmer, community leader and friend.
Donald (Donnie) Franklin, 75 of Plymouth, NY left all who love, respected, and befriended him behind on Friday, August 28th.
He was born in Preston, NY to Ursula (King) and LeRoy Franklin on September 9, 1939. Donnie was a 1958 graduate of Norwich High School.
Together with his wife, of almost 54 years, Carol (Kirby), they raised three daughters. Karen (Dave) Markham, Kathleen (Jay) Brown and Kimberly (Ruben) Sitts, and a very special niece Becky (Randy) Higgie who became daughter number four. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, David (Barbra) Markham, Kristin (Adam) Smith, Eric (Kaitlynn) Alger, Devon Sitts, and great-grandchildren Garrett, Kaylee, Gavin and Ryan Markham. And of course his little four legged tag along “Swiffer” who went everywhere with his Daddy.
To all his many nieces, nephews, cousins, very dear friends and neighbors, you all meant the world to him. He was so pleased to have you all in his life.
He was predeceased by his parents, Ursula and LeRoy, sisters Arlene Mumbulo, Norma Parker, Barbara Brown and brother “Laddy” Franklin. Surviving are his brothers Alfred (Jean), “Jiggs”, David Franklin and sister, Trudy Church.
He was a good man, a respected man, a gentle man, a caring man, he was a farmer who devoted his life so that others could benefit from his labors. Most of all he was a loving, devoted husband and father. If a man’s worth can be measured in what he has accomplished in life, then Donnie was the richest man on earth.
Rest easy, my love. Your pain and suffering is finally done.
There will be no calling hours. A celebration of life will be held from noon until 4 p.m., Sunday, October 4th at the V.F.W., Norwich, NY. Time will be announced at a later date. All family, friends and neighbors are graciously invited to attend to share stories, memories and especially to “kick up your heels” as Donnie requested.
Donations may be made to the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, the American Diabetic Association or the Preston Emergency Squad.
To Professional Home Care, Dr. Regina Frants, Dr. Gerry Falco, CarrieAnne Pisani, RPA-C, Primary Care, Kristen Lewis, FNP-C, Cardiology, Wilson Hospital Doctors and Staff, Preston Emergency Squad and City of Norwich Ambulance Service for your expert care. You were always there when needed. The family will be forever grateful.
Arrangements are by the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.