Darwin Keith Franklin

Darwin Keith Franklin, age 93, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, October 17, 2024 while surrounded by his family. Darwin loved spending time outdoors, specifically hunting, farming, and fishing. One of his biggest hobbies was trapping and collecting furs. He would trap everything from raccoons, minks, and muskrats. Darwin had an eye for antiques and amassed a neat collection of arrowheads and banks. He would spend many afternoons searching for arrowheads on the family farm. He will be deeply missed.

Darwin is survived by his wife, Suzanne Franklin; children Sherrie (Bill) Lewis, Vickie Weichlein, Rick (Robin) Hinckley, Sandy Olney, Kay (Jim) Kunz; 13 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; nieces Becky (Bud) Rowe, Cathy (Steve) Snider; and extended relatives and friends. Darwin is preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Katherine Franklin; second wife, June Franklin; and sister, Audrey (Harold) Willard.

Darwin will be laid to rest 2 p.m. Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at Maplewood Cemetery in Hopkins, Michigan with military honors. The family will also welcome guests to a memorial visitation from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at the Hall at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 1871 136th Ave., Dorr, MI 49323, with prayers of the Rosary held at 6 p.m.

In memory of Darwin and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hopkins FFA (hopkinsffa.com). The family welcomes memories and messages at www.kubiakcookwayland.com in Darwin’s online guest book.