Dr. Stanley M. Franklin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and respected community leader, passed away peacefully after a life marked by faith, service and deep devotion to his family. He was born in 1933 in Sterling, Colorado, to Caroline and Earl Franklin, and grew up alongside his nine siblings, which shaped his lifelong commitment to family and compassion for others.
Stanley attended Northeastern Junior College and the University of Colorado, where he met the love of his life, Marilyn Jensen. They were married in Boulder, Colorado and soon relocated to Lincoln, Nebraska, where Stanley earned his DDS degree from the University of Nebraska College of Dental Surgery. During their years in Lincoln, they welcomed three sons-Raymond, Ronald, and Randall. In 1966, the family moved to Littleton, Colorado, where Stanley established his orthodontic practice in Denver. That same year, they welcomed their youngest son, Roger.
Stanley practiced orthodontics for 36 years, earning the respect of patients and colleagues alike for his skill, integrity and kindness. He retired in 2002, leaving behind a professional legacy defined by excellence and genuine care for others.
A man of deep faith, Stanley was a devoted member of Calvery Temple, where he served in the choir and as a Board Elder for more than three decades. His commitment to service also extended into the community through his long-standing involvement with the Kiwanis Club, including a term as Club President.
Stanley found his greatest joy in time spent with his family. He treasured road trips in the family van, having camping and fishing adventures across Colorado, Mexico, and the Northeast. A gifted handyman, he delighted in tinkering in his garage, building or repairing anything and everything, and passing those skills on to his sons during cherished one-on-one time. His creative spirit was further expressed through painting and pottery.
Above all, Stanley shared an enduring and loving partnership with his wife Marilyn, whom he cherished every day of their life together.
Stanley was preceded in death by he and Marilyn’s son, Ronald, who passed away in 2007.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Marilyn; his sister Marilyn Kae; his sons Raymond (Debra); Randall (Susan); Roger (Jennifer); and Ronald’s former wife Virginia; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Joshua (Christine) with Kaden and Isaiah; James (Marita) with Claire and Conner; Jeremy (Lindsay) with Isabelle and Samuel; John (Rachel); Joanna (Jonathan) with Emmaline and Ethan; Kirstin; Rachel (Tyler) with Beckett and Briggs; Jonathan; and Nathaniel.
Dr. Stanley M. Franklin will be remembered for his unwavering faith, generous spirit, quiet strength, and profound love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.
