Donald F. Franke

Donald F. Franke, 87, Marathon died Friday, December 18, 2015 under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Copperleaf Assisted Living, Marathon. Don was born April 1, 1927 in Marathon, son of the late Gustave and Catherine (Volhard) Franke. For more than 26 years Don was an English/History teacher for the Stratford High School. As an active member at St. Mary Catholic Church in Marathon, he assisted with teaching children the readings for mass and also picking up the church mail on a daily basis. Some of his favorite pastimes included hunting, trout and musky fishing and being known to fix anything for anyone at anytime. Don had a deep passion for music and singing, which he did on a daily basis. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Don was a member of the American Legion, Alois Dreikosen Post #469, Marathon. Survivors include two sisters-in-law, Eileen Franke and Ruth Franke, Marathon and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his siblings, Alta, Esther, Alvina, Lorraine, Gustave, Gregory, Walter, LaVerne, Harvey and Gilbert. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 22, 2015 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Marathon. The Rev. Msgr. Joseph Diermeier will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Friends may call on Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. Mary Catholic Church. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Marathon is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com