Richard Alan Franklin

Richard Alan Franklin passed away just after sunrise on Monday, May 12 at his home in New Canaan, Connecticut. His loving wife, Kristen Crean, was by his side in his last moments, as the birds greeted the day in song.

Born in 1962 to Irving and Rochelle (nee Sheikowitz) Franklin, Rich grew up in the Howard Beach neighborhood of Queens, NY where he made strong friendships that lasted through his lifetime. An avid student, he graduated from high school early and began his college career at SUNY Albany at the age of 16.

He started his career as a CPA in the corporate sector before taking an entrepreneurial turn by co-founding Meadowsweet Kitchens with Nancy Ludwig McIntosh. He was justifiably proud to watch it grow and succeed over the next 30 years under his leadership.

Rich was a highly competitive bridge player, winning national tournaments with his long-time bridge partners David Venetianer and Peter Stein. A lover of sci-fi novels and classic rock–especially the Kinks and the Beatles–he had a fitting quote or song lyric to offer for just about any situation.

He loved sports, playing as a youth and into adulthood. He was a loyal fan (he would say “long-suffering”) of the NY Jets and NY Mets. He loved to recount his attendance at the fabled World Series Game 6 at Shea Stadium in 1986 where he witnessed first-hand his beloved Mets come from behind and best the Red Sox.

Rich was always the smartest guy in the room. His wit, good humor, and excellent storytelling earned him a wide circle of friends. He loved good food, good conversation, and travel, even venturing a trip to St. Maarten in March despite his advancing cancer.

He was predeceased by his parents and by longtime companion Terry Cohen. He is survived by his newly wedded wife Kristen Crean, who adored and cared for him in his final days; by Robert Crean, who respected his intellect and appreciated the happiness he brought to his mom; by his brother Robert and his wife Beth; by his nephew Skyler Franklin; and by many cousins and grieving friends.

A graveside service for Richard will be held Monday, May 19, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Evergreen Cemetery, 672 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME 04103.