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BORN
1958
DIED
2022
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Rick Franklin Obituary
December 31, 1958 - February 4, 2022
Merced, California - Rick Franklin will be remembered as a hard-working, soft-hearted, devoted husband, brother, father and Pappy. Faithful and loyal, simple and humble, self-sacrificing and good-natured to the end.
Rick Franklin was born December 31, 1958 in Merced, CA to Irene and Leon Franklin . Rick grew up alongside his brothers Guy and Bobby and sisters Leona, Kay and Margaret and continued to enjoy supportive and close relationships with his siblings throughout his life. Rick married his high school sweetheart, Helen Gonzalez, in 1979. Rick and Helen welcomed their first child, a beautiful baby girl, Eva, into the world in 1987. Her charming brother, Ricky, followed not long after in 1989 and the Franklin four were formed. In the years that followed, Rick had a 40-year trucking career from which he retired in 2021. He spent 40 years waking in the middle of the night, driving the state, and providing faithfully for his beloved family. When Eva and Ricky were in college, he would regularly meet them for breakfast in their respective towns along the central coast, prioritizing his children and making lasting memories. Throughout his life, Rick enjoyed hunting and fishing, the companionship of his dog, Lady, and taking trips to the central coast beach camping with his family; although more than anything being a father and a Pappy. It was impossible to meet Rick without seeing the glint of pride in his eyes for his children and grandchildren. He was quick to make a joke, ever-ready with a hug and a kiss, an easy cry, always willing to lend a hand to family and friends, well-known to spend a whole day helping with a yard or house project for one of his kids or a friend.
Rick was diagnosed with lung cancer in January 2022 and died in the presence of his loving family on February 4, 2022. He is survived by his wife, Helen, daughter and son-in-law, Eva and Jordan Van Horn, son and daughter-in-law, Ricky and Bree Franklin, and grandchildren, Marisol, Phoebe, Frances, and Fredrick. A celebration of Rick's life will take place at Central Presbyterian Church in Merced on Saturday, February 12 at 10am.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Restore Merced.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rick Franklin
Joseph Godoy
April 14, 2022
Worked with Rick for 15yrs at SaveMart. We had a lot of laughs at work. He was definitely a coworker that everyone enjoyed working with daily. The guy never complained and was always willing to help out any way he could in getting things done. Rick will be missed and I´m sure he is in a better place.
Martha Rodriguez
February 15, 2022
Helen - so sorry to hear about your loss. Praying that the Lord provides for all your needs and comforts you during this difficult time.
George Cuevas
February 12, 2022
Rick was one of nicest and friendliest co-workers that I would see most of the time as we were either clocking in or out from work for 30 years. Always a good morning or a good evening all with a smile on his face. He was a good man and will be missed by all who knew him and those who encountered him at the time clock or in the parking lot. Condolences to the family. Rick is now in the Glory of God!! See you my friend.
Tammy McNece
February 11, 2022
I have never been so happy to be called a "Weirdo" by anyone! Rick was and always will be one of my favorite "Weirdos" on this planet. So very grateful our paths crossed. Helen, sending you and the family my most sincere condolences.
Mark Jensen
February 11, 2022
I worked at Yosemite Wholesale with Rick and have some good memories of him. Rick was at times quite and reserved or maybe it was those early hours of the mornings we would have to start work at!!
When my son passed away I remember seeing Rick at the services and seeing the caring side of him and the value he placed on family.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all his family.
John Strom
February 10, 2022
I met Rick at the end of 8 grade but we develop a good friendship in High School were I met John Ortiz an John Linvile Rick I JL an JO hung out a lot parting out in an almond orchid where the 4 of us became really good friends Rick always had a good smile an always made u feel welcome then Gary Peters an Richard Parker join the group it was great how we all became friends being I was the new guy in Livingston I will always remember Rick for the rest of my life.One good thing about going b to heaven m is that your friends are already in heaven (John Linvile an Richard Parker) So Rick as friends waiting for him God Bless U Rick I love U RIP
Debbie and Rich Perez
February 9, 2022
Dear Helen and Family,
You are all in our hearts and prayers. May the beautiful memories of Rick bring peace to your breaking hearts. Rick always had the best smile! God bless you all.
Michelle Garcia Welch
February 9, 2022
I´m so sorry about Rick He was just a nice guy condolence to your whole family
Floyce Spowehn Andruss
February 9, 2022
I am so very sorry for your loss, my heart is heavy for your family Rick, you were always such a smooth, quiet, respectifull guy, you always had a smile and I can still see you standing with your right hand partially in your pants pocket I
Sandra Betschart
February 9, 2022
Condolences to the Franklin family; Rick always had the best smile. May God wrap his loving arms around all who loved Rick and give them comfort.
Randy & Bobbi Stephens
February 9, 2022
We'll always remember our trip to Tahoe and Ricky singing before the show to see the Oak Ridge Boys. Thanks for the memories Rick.
John & April Aleman
February 9, 2022
John and I always loved Rick's sense of humor. We would go over to the house and be laughing the whole time. We will always remember how he loved Chata the dog, having a clean car, the Dodgers, country music, and his family. His dedication to his family is an example to follow. Rick was a great man, truly a Godly person who we will miss. Our prayers for God's comfort to Helen, Eva, Ricky and all the extended family will continue.
Darryl Lopez
February 9, 2022
Rick was a great guy, I enjoyed driving with him all the years at Save Mart I will miss him.
Stratford Evans Funeral Chapel
February 9, 2022
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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