Ronald Franz

Franz, Ronald Otsego Ron passed away Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born July 13, 1942 and raised by his parents Stanley and Alice Franz in Eau Claire, Michigan. Ron earned his Bachelor degree in 1967 from WMU. He worked as a Probation Officer and worked for 30 years at Youth Opportunities Unlimited in Kalamazoo. Ron wore many hats in his days as an avid hunter and fisherman. Ron enjoyed being with nature and in the company of another outdoorsman. He was a driver's training instructor as well as enjoying Llama farming and polka dancing. He was never satisfied with just sitting still for a minute. He was a hard worker, cutting and trimming trees. Ron was a jokester. He always had a joke to tell no matter how inappropriate or awkward. He would tell it to the waitress at a restaurant and always when we still had to sit there and wait for our food. One thing you should have never asked Ron…How are you doing? His response was always STILL KICKING and he'd proved it with a light kick to your behind. He loved to laugh and have fun. He lived his best life. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Franz of 43 years; a daughter Kristen Franz Somers; 2 sons, John (Kristen) Franz and Erich (Shawna) Franz; 5 grandchildren, Natalie, Madelyn, Chloee, Cheznee and Carson; and a special nephew Tom Wicker. Remember all the things he loved to do, all the memories that you shared and live your best life like Ron did. According to his wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later time. Contributions in memory of Ron may be made to Ducks Unlimited. Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.