Steven Gustav Franz was born to Walter and Gertrude (Trudy) Franz on March 27, 1941, in Wilmar, California. He was raised in California and Utah. In 1959, Steven joined the United States Marine Corps, where he went on to earn his GED — a testament to his determination and work ethic.
It was during his time in the Marines that he would eventually meet the love of his life, Donna, at a church dance. After meeting, he was shipped overseas, the two were only able to communicate through letters. Upon his return, they reconnected, and on February 7, 1964, Steven and Donna Marie Jacobs were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity. They moved back to California for a short time, then settled in Salt Lake City, where they raised their four children: Eric, Heidi, Jarred, and Brandon.
He was a devoted husband to his wife, Donna. They celebrated 54 years of marriage before her passing in 2018. They had many great adventures traveling the country together. Being a father was one of his greatest callings, and some of his most cherished memories were made at Moon Lake — loading up the family for fishing trips and time together with friends and loved ones. Those moments around the water were a hallmark of the Franz family experience.
Steven loved being a Grandpa and was a huge supporter of all his grandchildren. He made it a priority to show up — sporting events, musical performances, graduations, and any major milestone in their lives. Family was everything to him. He was very handy, able to fix just about anything. Many times his children would call on him for help on how to complete a project.
Steven dedicated over 30 years to the United States Postal Service, faithfully delivering mail and serving the communities around him.
Steven was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in numerous callings, including in the Sunday School presidency, and always took the opportunity to show his love for others and the Gospel. He leaves a legacy of Christlike service and love for others, and he will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his children, Heidi (Mario) Bettolo, Jarred (Leslie) Franz, and Brandon (Monica) Franz, and daughter-in-law, Heidi (Eric) Franz; 18 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and six siblings. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna Franz; his son, Eric Franz; and siblings Dolores, Richard, Larry, John, Jim, and Don.
Services will be held Saturday, June 20th, 2026, 11:00 am in the Garden Park Ward building, 1150 Yale Ave, Salt Lake City, with Paul Werner officiating. The family will visit with friends and family on Friday evening from 6-8 pm at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Dr., Salt Lake City, and Saturday from 10-10:45 am before services at the church. Burial will be at Wasatch Lawn Cemetery.
