George Chester Franks

George Chester Franks, lovingly known as Chester, was born on September 13, 1927, on a farm near Colesburg, Iowa, and passed away at the age of 98. He attended rural Iowa schools and graduated from Fayette High School in 1947. During his school years, he enjoyed playing football and baseball and took part in school plays.

After graduation, Chester worked on the farm of George Tubesing in Sumner, IA. On February 19, 1950, he married Darlene Hyman, beginning a union that lasted 75 years. Following their marriage, Chester worked as a hired man near Postville, IA. In 1951, the couple moved to Hawkeye, IA, where they farmed until 1970. Chester then began a career in trucking, driving both locally and over the road for 42 years before retiring in 2007. For 14 winters, Chester and Darlene enjoyed spending time in Arizona. Together, they were blessed with five children: George Jr., Mary, Larry, Connie, and Barbara.

Chester was deeply involved in his community. He served with the Hawkeye Fire Department and First Responders, was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church Council, sponsored the League program, and was a member of the Hauth Park Board. He and Darlene also enjoyed square dancing. Chester's hobbies included fishing, gardening, woodworking, and most of all, spending time with his family and friends, especially while playing cards and board games.

Chester is survived by his wife, Darlene, and four children: George Jr. (Diane) of Ames, IA; Mary of Burnsville, MN; Connie (Michael) Schmitt of Hackensack, MN; and Barbara (Abe) Simpson of Mesa, AZ, and five grandchildren: Justin (Andrea) Franks, Heather Franks, Trey (Susannah) Johnson, Austin (Lerah) Simpson, and Amber Simpson, and eight great-grandchildren: Jack and Will Franks; Hailey and Brooke Heidtbrink; Nathaniel and Cameron Johnson; and Lux and Alanah Simpson.

Chester was preceded in death by his son Larry, his parents Mikeal and Margaret Franks of Hawkeye, and all of his brothers and sister.

Plans are being made for a memorial service following the first of the year.

In lieu of flowers, please remember Chester by sending a memorial gift to Hospice c/o Gunderson Palmer Hospital, 112 Jefferson Street, West Union, IA 52175. Honoring him in this way recognizes the dedication and talent of the Hospice and Good Samaritan staff who cared for him with dignity and compassion.