Franklin Charles Karner, 81, joined his Savior on October 17, 2018. Frank was a giant of a man with an even bigger heart whose quick smile, kind words, and quiet strength will be sorely missed. He was born on May 18, 1937 in Luther, Oklahoma to Frank and Esther (Schultz) Karner. He graduated from St. John’s Lutheran College in Winfield, KS in 1957 and returned to Luther, OK to marry Elisabeth Fink. They wed on March 19, 1960. In Frank’s words, “they have lived happily ever after.” Frank’s family cherishes he and Elisabeth’s love story.
Love is something that came naturally to Frank. He loved Elisabeth. He loved his family. Most importantly, he loved God. Frank was a faithful servant who found great joy in spreading God’s love. He was an active member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, serving on numerous boards and committees.
Frank was an enthusiastic traveler and never passed up an opportunity to visit new places, or even re-visit old places. His favorite place to visit was Germany. Frank was mechanically-inclined and had a knack for restoring old cars and old radios. He forged lasting friendships with members of his church and with members of his radio club.
Frank is preceded in death by his parents; brother Alfred; and brother Walt. He is survived by his true love, Elisabeth; a daughter, Teresa “Terri” (Jim) Hollarn; and a son, Steven. He is also survived by two granddaughters, Krystina (Christopher) Phillips, and Emily Hollarn, and two great-grandchildren, Callan and Esther Phillips. Frank is survived by two brothers, Roy (Betty) Karner and Harold Karner.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Saturday, October 20, 2018 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 700 N. Air Depot, Midwest City, OK, with burial to follow at Arlington Memory Gardens in Midwest City, OK. The family requests that memorials be given to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org).
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