I met Suren's grand father (Mr. Benny) in 1979 and we became friends. He hired me to help around the gym on weekends and as a summer job.  He introduced me to Suren.  
Suren was a great man of faith and we went to a big church once (the 3 of us).   My sincere condolences to his family.   
Oscar.

I miss you in every way. I miss our conversations. I miss our laughs. I could go on. You've left us so soon. How I wish I could've called you Dad. How I wish you could be there to see how everything unfolds in our lives. But I know you will. You'll be taking care of all of us from above. I hope I've made you proud, Dad. I love you. You'll always be in my heart. Until we meet again. <3

It was a pleasure working with Suren at Water and Power.
As he walked around in the district, he always greeted
everyone with a smile.  He stood out from the rest because
of his character and of course his name.  Thank you Suren
for making me feel like part of the team.  We were brothers and sisters in union.  He will be missed!

I miss you everyday cousin and your in my thoughts and prayers!!! Gone to soon but you will never be forgotten. I love you. 
Evangelina Ehlers

My love
I didn't get to say good bye or get to say the last “I love you” You are truly and always will be the love of my life! Baby I miss you and just want to hold you one more time…we shared so much together. Our home was not perfect but your honesty and confessions of your struggles made our relationship strong, and prayed up.  It caused us to grow and to battle together through prayer. It caused us to search the scriptures and talk about Our Sin and Gods loving grace through his Son Jesus Christ. You we're truly rare find, a special person that God entrusted me with for a short time.  I will forever have you and all that you are in my heart. I will forever be grateful for the life we built together, the children we raised. I will miss the beautiful talks about Our Lord.  I will miss your booming voice as you prayed for our family out loud. I will miss your hand pressed on my face, and kisses in the morning before you left work, your big smile and great hugs. … I have lost my best friend. Although my heart aches, and will miss you.  I know that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.  I see your big smile as you walked through the gates of heaven embraced with a big hug.  So this is not good bye it is until we meet again….I love you Baby!

I met Suren and Maryann at church, I was living in northern Cali at the time and had come down to visit. They invited us to their house afterward and so it became a ritual sorta....  I'd come down and whenever I came to town my friends and some of my family members always wanted to come with me... we'd always end up at their house, ALWAYS! 
I remember Suren saying to me once "Yollie, how do you get all these people to come with you" not because he was complaining about feeding them (lol) but because he was happy and praised God that they too got to hear Gods word, since then 2 of those friends have gone to meet our 
maker but because of those times I know that they were able to welcome Suren into the gates, Rest in peace friend and thank you for all your hospitality.

I didn't know him.  But I didn't have to because he touched my heart anyway without having to. What a beautiful person he must have been. A family man just like my husband. We share a lot of things in common. The first thing is our profound love for Jesus Christ. The others are our closeness of age, our marriage (25 years for ours), the love for life, children, people and how we express that love to one another. I would like to express how touched I feel after reading about him that's why I'm leaving this message on his page. I hope it's ok being that he didn't know me. I know his love with his wife and family will continue again and they will be happy again together with everlasting love in paradise.

One day I invited several of my friends to my house so we can have a nice time together I was waiting for my friend Maryann and her husband Suren.It was the first time I was going to meet him.Suddenly I heard a loud sound and I went to look outside and there they were Suren and Maryann in a motorcyle with their biker outfits I was so surprised they sure look cool! Then we had a wonderful time all together. He was so kind  with all of us at work he sure was a gentleman. We are going to miss him ! But I am sure GOD was needing an Angel that is why he had to go.

Ana Flores

Danny and I will forever be thankful for your willingness to serve the people at Calvary Chapel Santa Clarita. What an example of love and true hospitality you gave to everyone you met. We enjoyed your humor and the times we got to fellowship together. We look forward to a time when we can do that again.
Danny and Jenny Young

I had the pleasure of meeting my brother-in-law 6 years ago when visiting with my husbands family in California.  He was so loving to our kiddos. He was playing with my 10 month old, took him walking and bought him little noisy gifts. He had just become a grandfather so he was practicing his skills.  Our kids were so excited when he showed them what he did for a living. He put on his gear and climbed up the utility pole...they were amazed...when we returned back to Texas, every time they would see a pole they would say, "that was so cool when Uncle Suren climbed that pole."  Thank you brother-in-law for making us feel welcomed.  
We will miss you always...
Jose, Naomi, Alyssa, Joseph and Nicholas Tejero (Austin, TX)

After reading the messages people left, it confirmed what I always believed, that Suren was a very special person. He will always hold a special place in my heart. I will always remember his beautiful eyes and that million dollar smile. He had the most comforting hugs. I will treasure the conversations we had. He will be missed deeply.




 Ana Flores:  I remember that day and I also remember he brought lunch for all of us to celebrate I think Maryann's birthday.They both have the love of Christ in their hearts and spirit that is why their love was so beautiful on earth but like Maryann says someday they are going to meet again to continue that beautiful love.

July 11 at 2:24pm · Like..
Lydia Salcido Avila:   That's right, the lunch for Maryann's birthday. I had forgotten about that! He was always there didn't have to be a special occasion! I will miss him too.

July 11 at 2:38pm via mobile · Unlike ·

What I Would Have Said....

As I sat at the memorial service for Suren, so many things filled my mind.  I surveyed the last ten or eleven years that I have known Suren and so much filled my heart and wanted to jump off my tongue, yet I refused to go up and speak.  Maybe for fear of crying to much or a fear of not making sense.  Nonetheless, these memories and thoughts will not leave me alone so I feel compelled to write, with eyes still flooding with tears, to whoever will read them.  I know my words will not be adequate in describing him, but this is my feeble attempt to bring honor to his memory.

I met Suren around ten or eleven years ago, maybe more, at a midweek service for Calvary Chapel Sylmar when it was held at the little church across from Hubbard Elementary in Sylmar.  He came one evening and I introduced myself to him, not knowing that he and Frances would soon become such a vital part of our church family at Sylmar.  He was alone that evening and  for a few weeks to follow, but he spoke of the boys and Frances.  During that time of my life I had trusted in Christ for my salvation, but was struggling with something very difficult that I felt I couldn't stop.  In these brief moments of meeting this bright eyed man he would pull me aside and declare the Scriptures to me, God's promises of washing away my sin and setting me free by the blood of Christ.  He would exhort me to forsake those things that so easily entangled me and to cling to Christ, yet he knew nothing of my circumstances. He would also assure me of God's love for me and that my failures did not separate me from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus.  Little did I know that he would not only do this those few times, but him and Frances played such an important part at that time to help me come to terms with my sin and by God's grace forsake the misery I was in at the time.  He also, as I witnessed countless times, played a similar role in some of my closest friends' lives, other people in the church, and strangers that he randomly came across.  That was just the beginning.  Hahaha.  What a beginning.  From that point on Frances and the boys joined us as well and for many years to follow our lives became so intertwined that my kids now called him Grandpa Suren.  

I will not tell every detail, nor share every memory that I have of Suren and Frances.  I include both of there names because so often it was in both of their company that myself and later my family would be with.  However, there are things that I want to remember about Suren.

I want to remember his hugs that were so tight that it felt like his shoulder dug into my neck.
I want to remember his sweet kisses to the top of my head and him telling me "I love you."  
I want to remember how he would put his hand out and quote tons of Scripture.
I want to remember how he would laugh with his mouth open with his big smile.
I want to remember how much he loved to give my kids things when he was around them, or how he would fearlessly grab them and try to love on them.
I want to remember how he would remind John how to be a man in small practical ways.  
I want to remember why I nicknamed him Martin Luther. 
I want to remember how desperately he would try to gather us all together to have meaningful times of fellowship with one another and how their house was always open to everyone. He loved to gather with people and ask the tough questions or put people on the spot to share something of worth.
I want to remember how many families and individuals he and Frances took under their care to ensure they were doing well and were cared for materially and spiritually.  

Suren Franklin was an unforgettable man that will forever have a place in my heart and memories in our family and the list of things to remember about him could go on and on.  He was a man that was well aware of his failures before a Holy God and sought desperately to please God in his actions and thoughts.  His sensitive heart and mind was something to be admired and I would often tell him how much I desired to have such a sorrowful heart over things that I did that offended God. He desired to be transparent and coveted everyone's prayers that he would love God more. He loved his family and he worked hard in and out of the house.  I will miss bumping into him at random places, because he was everywhere, or miss hearing him surprise us at our house and trying to see what we had to eat.  I will miss seeing him hug and kiss Frances or play around with the boys.  I will miss seeing how uncomfortable he made people at times because he would boldly proclaim what he knew to be true in spite of himself.  Regardless of all of his struggles, he could not hold back the truth of the Scriptures and he always gave fitting words to those around him.  He never failed to bring a smile to the faces that were with him.  He could be such a kid at times and make you laugh until it hurt, and he could be so serious about the important things in life until it made you cry.  I am thankful for the intimate time I have had with all of the Franklin family and although I have an earthly father who has taken good care of me materially and who loves me dearly, Suren Franklin definitely had certain spiritual fatherly attributes that as a growing adult, a young wife, and a young mother benefitted me greatly and I will never forget him. The fact that a man, who is not my own flesh and blood, could have such an impact on my family and I is really quite amazing and should testify alone to the type of person he was.  Suren fought the good fight and he needs not to fight any longer for he is free from the bondage of sin, because he put his faith in the finished work of Christ, and now sits in glory purely praising God with all that is within him.

Suren was not only a man that shared the Gospel when ever he could but lived it. He showed his hospitality to my family and I when we had no where to live, he opened his home and provided for us until we found a home of our own. For that I will always remember him and how he personified the love of God. May the Lord bless his family.

I would like to begin by saying that Suren, was one of a kind. He was extremely helpful, caring, and always ready to pray for those who were either hurting or struggling. I met him at calvary chapel, sylmar. It was there that he expressed the most genuine concern and love for me. Some of the greatest memories I have of him consists of him being concerned for my spiritual well being. He was really good at getting to the root of things and at times it seemed as if he could see right through me. I really enjoyed hearing him pray, laugh, and recite scripture as he stared right into my eyes. Suren's boldness was extraordinary! I always found that to be one of the most wonderful things about his personality. I am very grateful that I had the honor to share such great moments with Suren and his family.

Suren would always give the best hugs. If you arrived to church with a heavy heart or worried about anything you could always count on Suren to give you a great big hug of comfort and reassurance that God is control. Thank you Suren, for your faithfulness to love, discipline, correct, uplift, re-assure, and encourage those who crossed your path, including my self. Wether it was with a word of encouragement or with a hug of compassion. They were the best. And to Maryanne and the entire family, may The Lord fill this awful void in your lives with peace and joy of having such a great man in your lives  

 In His love and grace,
Brenda and Nacho Estrada

I can only imagine the hug you embraced our Savior with! Well done, well done Suren enjoy the peace and joy of eternity with our Jesus! We look forward to the day when we will all be together worshiping and praising our God! In CHrist alone by Grace Alone, Alfred and Analisa Flores

Suren had the most infectious smile ever...his face really lit up a room and broke the ice! He loved the Lord and did not have a problem sharing Jesus with anyone--and then I met the twins!! Good Lord---you needed to know Jesus and have a sense of humor like Suren's to handle that DOUBLE TROUBLE. The Lord used him..bondservant of The Most High, "well done good and faithful servant"...

Always a very pleasant man and eager to open up the word with you .  Here is a story I remember going over to the Franklin residence as a newly wed couple my husband Diego & my 2 sons at the time just James and Michael .  We broke bread together and shared some of our struggles and encouraged one another .  That day we were struggling with something and our spirits were lifted up after hearing Suren and Francis share their struggles - advice & wisdom from the word .  After  our meal Mr. Suren opened up the scriptures .   It was our first time opening up the word together as a family at the dinner table .  It was so pleasant and encouraging we loved every bit of it .  It started with Suren reading the passage and then sharing how God was speaking through the passage .  Then each one of us would also share even the kids.  It got us to listen intently to use our intellect and ask the Holy Spirit's help.  I was a new believer at the time and really enjoyed the fellowship and the example of family worship .  My husband and the boys really enjoyed the time as well.  That same day Mr. Suren took Diego and the boys to the garage where he had his punching bag.  He taught them a few things in the skill of boxing .  What to do and what not to do .  This all took place about 5 years ago my sons now 18 & 14 always bring him up and what he taught them about boxing .  For some reason it always comes up in conversation .  I can say they enjoyed that as well.  Whenever they would see him they were quick to point out Suren and always looked forward to saying hi to him.  The times spent together were very few but always an encouragement . One more thing about Suren is that he was always quick to pray .

This beautiful family I have known since I was very young. So many memories with Francis and my mom. Growing up i was close to their kids i babysat them and would call them my brothers and sister. I loved being with them playing, swimming, watching movies, going to different events etc. I didn't know Suren as much until I was a little older. Francis always made me feel like a daughter when mine wasn't there for me as much. She has such a beautiful welcoming heart. When I met Suren I was going through my teen rebellious years. He was so sweet and had such a good heart everytime I saw him he made me feel so welcomed. He was always smiling and happy about everything. He gave me good advice all the time. When he would talk to me he would talk to me with respect and not talk down to me like I was just another teenager. For that I called him MY UNCLE. There is nothing sweeter then a man who has a heart for children. I love you Suren and wish I could have been around more often the older I got. When my son was diagnosed with cancer I know I spoke with you and Francis about coming to the hospital to pray with me but it didn't happen. I really wish it did and I could of seen you again. You will always be missed.

Will never forget when he invited my parents to have dinner at his home he was so passionate about reaching out to them with God's word and I was so thankful to him and Frances!! Suren you will always have a special place in my heart. Thank u for telling my parents things that I didn't have the courage to tell them about the consequences of not knowing God. He had no filter when it came to the gospel and that's what I will always remember about him.

Who was my Dad ? 
He was a son
He was a husband
He was a father
He was a grandfather 
He was a Christian 
He was a sinner 
He was a leader 
He was forgiven 
He was loved
He was wanted 
He was an inspiration 
He was lost 
He was found 
He was mine - I love you dad !!! I miss you still cant believe your gone- or don't want to believe- Daddy's home

To a great man.. I love you cousin!! I never thought i would be saying goodbye to you so soon. You are in the arms of angels now. Just know that your loved by all and missed by many. God bless you in heaven, and bless your family. Until we meet again.
 Your cousin, Evangelina Ehlers
xoxoxo

Suren, Frances & the boys have always held a special place in our hearts. We were so excited when you bought the house down the street from us. We really enjoyed having you as neighbors & friends. We were equally sad when you moved away, we could never forget you. We will always remember Suren's hugs & his strong handshake! He was much too young to have passed, however God must have bigger plans for him. Suren will be dearly missed.... RIP

A much too tardy Hello and an extremely too early Goodbye to you cousin. I can't even remember the last time I saw or talked with you, but your conversations with my sister Lorrie helped her quite a bit, when she desperately needed it.I am certain the loving arms of our Lord are around you now, as well as your family. I am sorry I missed being a part of your life. Your (2nd) cousin, Cheryl

Suren was a great guy! He was funny and very passionate about his faith and family. Love to you and your family France.

Frances, 
Joanne and I were saddened to hear of Suren's death.  We are sorry for your loss.  We have always admired Suren.  He always gave 100% to whatever he did - he never did anything half way.  He was brutally honest, but always loving.  He was direct, and did not deny or hide his own struggles.  And man, did he love the Lord!!.  I learned a lot about being an advocate for Jesus from him.  He always challenged my beliefs helping me to grow.  It has been wonderful to fellowship with you both.  I will never forget his love of the Gospel, his big smile and those great bear hugs.  A good man has gone to be with our Lord.  I pray for peace to you and your family.

Joe, Joanne and Zachary Greene 
(Santa Clarita, CA)

Suren you were a great worker and leader and will be missed by all the Conduit Mechanics and Apprentices at the Department of Water and Power. R.I.P. until we all meet again

Suren, you be greatly missed but not forgotten. Thank you for always being there for me when in the time of need. I was closer to you than anyone in Kika family. Even though times have changed, I always thought that's the man the got me closer to God. You were truly an angel to me and many others. Its so heart breaking that you are gone and in shocked still. But I don't know why he took you, but he had a purpose. I will always remember you, your humor, your cooking and your love to minister to people. Love you always Suren. You are dancing with the Angels.

I didn't get to know Suren as well as I would have liked, but he made my Goddaughter (Frances) a happy woman!  The family holiday photos are a true treasure. You will be missed by us all.  May you rest in peace under the arm of our Heavenly Father.  God Bless the Franklin family.

Rest in Paradise Cousin Suren you will be missed! Thank you for sharing last Christmas at your home, memories were made and will never be forgotten!

Honest, bold, intense, funny, and one of a kind. May all that he shared live on in his children and wife until they meet again. He is finally at peace in the full presence of God, complete.

Rest in peace Suren.  My condolences to my cousin Kika and the Franklin family.

It is heartwarming to know that (Little) Suren touched so many and changed lives and maybe even saved a few lives too.  All the wonderful stories would have made his father proud because I am proud of the man he became.  He made a good life with his wife, and his children and grandchildren who serve as a lasting legacy to him.  Sometimes he over analyzed and second guessed himself but in the end he was the kindest soul I knew...he will be sorely missed. I Love you nephew, Aunt Sharon

There are no words that I could say that would heal your hearts, but know he will forever live in your hearts.

Suren you were a good homie,I had a good time at your house last Christmas you will be missed, rest in peace till we meet again Carnale C's up (Lobo). Love and respect your homie Rudy Rojas(Weasel)

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Suren i miss you and love you! You've impacted my life tremendously. May you rest in peace within our fathers arms!

Oh my cousin, my childhood friend.....my heart is so saddened by your early departure. You made a huge impact upon my life and Troy's, thank you so much. So now, you are indeed, safe in the arms of Jesus. I lift up each and every one of your family members in Jesus name, for comfort, peace and understanding, while we wait to see you again.

Although I've never had the opportunity to get to know you well, I've always heard positive stories about you and what a great man you are.  You will definitely be missed by those you were close to, as well as those of us that have lost that opportunity to know you better.  Rest in peace, bro!

Please except our deepest sympathy for the loss of Suren.  He is in the arms of the Lord and knows no pain, want or sorrow.  
Absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

Sandra and Richard L. Scott
(2nd cousins) 1st cousins to Robert G. and Sharon R. Hazelton

OBITUARY

Suren J. Franklin

June 29, 1965 – June 27, 2013

Eternal Valley Memorial Park & Mortuary

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