Leonard Paul Franke

Leonard P. Franke (88) passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, March 2nd, 2022, at Hospice of the Valley in Surprise, Az. Len was born June 4, 1933, in Buffalo, MN to Paul E. Franke and Helen J. (Topel) Franke. He lived his school age years in Buffalo and graduated from Buffalo High School. Len served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War finishing his tour as a Staff Sargent. While in basic training in San Antonio, TX, Len met and married the love of his life, Melba S. Franke. Following his years in the military, Len began working for the United States Postal Service which eventually took him to Arizona. After 30+ years, he retired in Sun City West, Arizona. Len loved his retirement years and pursued many of his hidden talents. After many years of singing in the church choir, he auditioned for and was invited to join the Fabulous Phoenicians, a barbershop chorus. He sang with them for several years and later joined the Westernaires of Sun City West. He participated in plays and worked on the stage crew as a member of Theater West. He joined informal singing groups and was very proud to have been part of the recording made of Ghost Riders in the Sky. Len loved his family and shared his strong faith, love of life, incredible work ethic and many other talents with each of them. His many friends were very important to him and he made it a point to let them know in his own, special way.

Len is survived by his children, Rick Franke (Roberta), Cyndi Franke Hudson (Travis) and Nancy Jo Cannon (Robert), and many grandchildren, great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Melba S. Franke.

A celebration of life with military honors for Leonard will be held Friday, April 1, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Sunland Mortuary, 15826 Del Webb Blvd, Sun City, AZ.

Leonard will be laid to rest in West Resthaven Cemetery, Glendale, AZ.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunlandmemorial.com for the Franke family.