Barbara Louise Franke

Barbara Louise Franke

Mequon - Entered the gates of Heaven on Tuesday May 11, 2021 at the age of 87.

Loving mother to Thomas (Cynthia), Jonathan, and Liesa (Richard). Proud grandmother of Jorden (Jeff) Spencer, Justin (Michelle), Nathan, and Alexander; Adoring great-grandmother of Travis, Audrey, and Levi. Preceded in death by husband Gordon, daughters Dawn and Laurel, and great-grandson Wyatt. Survived by two sisters, other relatives and friends.

Barbara was born to Margaret and Earl Barber in 1933. They lived on 54th street in Milwaukee with her younger sisters Carole and Earlene. Barbara attended First Central School followed by Lutheran High for two years and then completing her last two years at Custer High School. She became a Schuster's girl then worked briefly at Allis Chalmers. She married Gordon Franke in 1953. When the children were out of early elementary school she resumed her career path. She was an Avon Lady and from there it was on to floral design. She enrolled in Miss Nesslers School of Floral Design and was the top designer in her graduating class. She worked for Baumgarten Krueger Flower Shop for 20+ years.

Barbara thoroughly enjoyed her time at the family lake cottage in Conover, WI. She has been going to the property every year since 1945, often spending much of the summer there. She was able to honor her father's dream of the property being there for his grandchildren.

Barbara was a charter member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, Mequon. She served in many capacities at the church over the years. She particularly enjoyed arranging flowers for the church for 50+ years.

Friends may greet the family on Monday, May 17 from 6:00PM until time of funeral service at 7:00PM at BEAUTIFUL SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH, 11313 N. Riverland Rd., Mequon. Masks and social distancing will be observed at the church. Interment at Graceland Cemetery will be private. Memorials to Interfaith Caregivers of Ozaukee County would be deeply appreciated.