Larry James Franzen

Larry was born January 26, 1947, in Johanna, SC to parents Carl and Lorraine Franzen, and was the youngest of 5 children.

Larry graduated from Clinton High School and then went on to Parks College, in Cahokia, Illinois where he graduated as a Licensed Airframe & Power Plant Mechanic. He was a commercial pilot with a multi engine rating.

He served in the USAF and then spent the remainder of his career as a civilian federal employee. He met his wife Kathleen at Homestead AFB, FL, where she served as an AF sheet metal technician. Larry transferred to FE Warren AFB in Cheyenne, Wyoming and then settled in Falcon, CO where he raised his family. He retired as SMS, USAFR, 302 MXS/MXMT from Peterson AFB in Colorado Springs, CO, 2004.

After retirement Larry operated a lawnmower repair business and taught community children small engine maintenance through 4-H.

He also kept a part time job at the local car wash maintaining the systems and interacting with customers.

He was an avid train lover and involved in several Lionel toy train clubs. He ran the Slick-X RR rail line with his friends at various events around the state and Depot Days in Cheyenne.

Larry is survived by his wife Kathleen of 48 years, daughter Christine, son Alan, daughter-in-law Leah, grandchildren Ali and Thomas, son Bryan, and brothers Melvin and Charles.

Larry is preceded in passing by his parents, brother Robert, sister Elaine, and son Thomas.

A visitation will be held 10AM Monday, February 17, 2025, with Funeral Service to follow at 11AM at Swan Law Funeral Directors, 501 N. Cascade Ave.

A private burial will take place at Eastonville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Joseph’s Children’s Home in Torrington, WY. https://stjoseph-wy.org/