Christian Denis Franden

Christian Denis Franden passed away in Katy, Texas on November 7, 2022, after a brief illness. He was born March 16, 1970, in Evanston, Illinois to the late Steven Robert Franden and Judith Claborn Franden. Christian was educated in Wilmette, Illinois before his family moved to Pasadena, California where he lived for 5 years before the family relocated to Austin, Texas. Christian attended Stephen F. Austin High School in Austin, Texas where he was on the football team. Texas was home to Christian and his high school friends remained his friends throughout his life.

Christian served his Country and was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps in 1996 as Sergeant Christian Denis Franden. Being a Marine stayed in Christian’s heart for the remainder of his life. He often told tales of how important his Marine friends were to him. It is said his Marine buddies lovingly referred to him as “Frandog,” a name he felt proud to carry. Christian obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas on May 10, 2003. He spent his life protecting his fellow man. Christian’s career with the Texas Department of Public Safety as a Texas State Trooper took him to remote areas of the state. He also worked as the Director of Security for various oil and gas companies which allowed him to travel to distant parts of the world. Christian has a tremendous number of good long-time friends and to know Christian was to know his life and world travels. Christian’s greatest accomplishment was being the best Dad possible to his sons, Jack and Ryan Hill. His near-perfect attendance at their baseball games was legendary.

Christian is survived by his two sons, Jackson McIntyre Franden and Ryan Hill Franden of Katy, Texas, and his sister, Kara Franden Neuman (Robert) of Pagosa Springs, Colorado. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

It has been said of Christian that he could tell a five-minute story in one hour and keep everyone in the room laughing the entire time. He was a personality that is best described as larger than life and he was loved by many.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Christian, feel free to donate to Fort Bend Animal Shelter (www.fortbendpaws.org) or Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org).