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Obituary for Gerald Richard Franklin
Gerald Richard Franklin, 77, of Commerce Township, Michigan passed away on Tuesday, April 26, 2022.
Gerald was born in Bremerton, Washington on January 18, 1945, and was one of five children to the late Wilbur and Violet Franklin. He spent his growing up years in the Denver, Colorado area and was a track athlete and tremendous gymnast in his youth, especially on the rings. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Colorado Boulder, and then furthered his education with a few years of graduate school. He took a job offer with Pier One Imports which led him to Michigan where he managed a store in Southfield, Michigan as well as Dearborn, Michigan. It was while working for Pier One that he would meet the love of his life, Patricia Tobar, whom he would later marry on August 9, 1974. He later took a job offer in sales with Xerox and worked there for many years as well as few other companies in the same field. He also enjoyed time as a realtor.
Always the life of the party, Gerald was known for a great smile, making others laugh, and had a quick wit with an incredible mind. He was an animal lover and will be greatly missed by his two Shih Tzu dogs. But most of all, it was family that meant the most. He was a devoted husband and father, and was proud to become the grandfather of two grandchildren. He was always there for his daughter and never missed an opportunity to tell her just how much he loved her. He truly enjoyed traveling with Patty, including trips to Costa Rica, Cuba, Alaska, Ecuador, Peru, Hawaii, and especially his most recent trip to Disney World with his family. He was very close with his wife’s family and always enjoyed their company. Gerald always considered himself a lucky man to have met Patty. He loved her dearly and cherished their time together. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Beloved husband of Patricia for 48 years. Loving father of Jennifer Boyd (Adam). Proud grandfather of Avery and Violet Boyd. Dear brother of Paul Franklin (Gayle), John Franklin (Sarahann), Kirk Franklin, and Judy Coleman. Brother-in-law of Monica Proschek (Tom), Rod Tobar, Jr., Lilly Tobar, David Tobar (Stacey). Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Friday, April 29, 2022 from 2:00pm - 5:00pm at Lynch & Sons Funeral Home 404 E. Liberty St. Milford, MI 48381. A Sharing of Memories will take place at 5:00pm at the funeral home.
