Henry Nicholas Franssen

Henry “Hank” Nicholas Franssen was born on November 12, 1941, in Holland, during the uncertain years of World War II. He left this world on August 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, determination, adventure.

Hank was a loving husband, devoted father, the eldest of four siblings, and a loyal friend to many. He was a quiet strength—strong-willed, disciplined, honest, and always ready to push the people he loved to be their best. He didn’t always say much, but when Hank had something to say, you knew it was worth listening to.

Hank and Melinda met on a blind date, and nearly five decades later, that blind date proved to have pretty good vision. They married on July 4, 1976, in Las Vegas, beginning a life together filled with love, laughter, respect, and adventure.

As a father, Hank loved quietly, completely, and unconditionally. He was the person who made his family feel safe simply by being there. He showed his love through what he did rather than what he said—and there was never any question where his family stood with him.

Hank loved adventure, especially the kind that required getting in the car with no plan. His philosophy was simple: get in, drive, and see what happens. One of his greatest adventures was a three-week road trip with his best friend from Temple City to Alaska along the Alaska Highway—in a Corvette, of course. Because apparently driving thousands of miles to Alaska wasn't adventurous enough without doing it in a sports car.

Easter was another Hank tradition. He believed there was no such thing as too many eggs—ostrich, duck, chicken, you name it. The family could spend hours around the table coloring dozens and dozens of eggs. It was messy, creative, and completely Hank.

Hank's professional life was just as impressive. After starting out as a paper boy and serving as an Army Medic, he built a career spanning more than 50 years as a metallurgist and quality assurance engineer supporting the space program. Brilliant, dedicated, and a true expert in his field, Hank was honored as Engineer of the Year. He had the remarkable opportunity to receive an award from Neil Armstrong and later meet Buzz Aldrin—an extraordinary connection between the man and the space program he helped support.

Hank also believed in giving back. For many years, he volunteered at the Los Angeles County Arboretum, spending time in the rose garden. His love of gardening was learned from his father, carried throughout his life, and passed on to his daughter.

Even as Alzheimer's made some things harder to remember, Hank never stopped loving his family. That love remained constant.

Hank leaves behind his strong will, generous heart, quiet laughter, adventurous spirit, and a smile that could light up a room. More than the awards, accomplishments, and adventures, his greatest legacy is the family he loved and the memories he created with them.

He lived a life of purpose, curiosity, hard work, family, and a healthy appreciation for the open road. He taught us to be strong, keep moving forward, enjoy the ride, and, whenever possible, take the scenic route.

***

The funeral service will be held virtually via Zoom on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. PST.

https://us05web.zoom.us/j/87682769045?pwd=LEZIZ9P0ajEiOkzpnuixmaBZypSlMB.1

***

In Lieu of Flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Hank’s honor, linked below.

Los Angeles County Arboretum: Hank and Melinda shared a deep love for the Arboretum and volunteered there for many years. Donations may be made through the Arboretum’s Tributes and Memorials program.

St. Luke Catholic Community: St. Luke holds a special place in the Franssen family’s history. When the family first came to the United States, St. Luke welcomed them, providing shelter and a home as they began their new life. Donations may be made through Donations > Mission.