Francis "Fran" Felhofer

It is with heavy hearts (and a few smiles in remembrance) that we announce the passing of Francis "Fran" Felhofer, who left us on September 25th, 2024. A man of immense talent, vision, and humor, Fran was not only an entrepreneur and community leader but a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who made a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Born on February 26, 1933, to the late Frank and Gladys (Kreyche) Felhofer, Fran grew up in Sturgeon Bay. After graduating from Sturgeon Bay High School, he attended Marquette University before returning to Door County to join the family business.
Family was the core of Fran's life. He and Carol Jean Bosman were married on December 29, 1956, and raised five wonderful children together: Michael, Paula, Ellen, Matthew, and Mark. Their home was always filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of a man who cherished every moment spent with those he loved most.
Fran never took life too seriously. He was a notorious prankster, always keeping friends, family, and colleagues on their toes with a mischievous grin and a clever joke up his sleeve (Rest in Peace, Skippy). Fran was also a master at hiding Easter baskets in the most creative ways, turning a simple holiday tradition into a fun, laughter-filled challenge. His humor brought lightness to every room, balancing his reputation as a respected leader with his love for laughter.
Fran was a man driven by integrity, deeply respected by all who crossed his path. His entrepreneurial mindset transformed Bay Marine from the Cherryland service station his father started into a thriving marine enterprise. There wasn't an idea Fran couldn't turn into a business. His inspired vision, unending passion, and remarkable work ethic still resonate in the continued success of Bay Marine.
An avid scuba diver, he was involved in major shipwreck rescue and recovery missions, including the schooner Jennibelle and the S.S. Cedarville. Frequently consulted for his nautical expertise, Fran even led a team of divers in raising the anchor of the schooner Oak Leaf, which was enjoyed for decades outside of Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. Fran's deep connection to the water was as steadfast as his commitment to his family and community.
Fran was a pillar in his church and community, deeply committed to his Catholic faith and active in organizations like Kiwanis. He always had time for those in need, offering a helping hand and leadership in all aspects of life. When not working or giving back to the community, Fran cherished time at the hunting cabin, especially the annual deer camp trip, a tradition that brought him great joy.
Preceding Fran in death are his beloved wife of 67 years Carol Felhofer, parents Frank and Gladys Felhofer, daughter-in-law Nancy (Carnahan) Felhofer, great-grandson Finley Felhofer, siblings Virginia "Ginny" Felhofer, William "Bud" Felhofer, and Margaret "Peg" Kirley; in-laws Gerry Bosman and Al Hanson.
His legacy is carried on by his five children: Michael (Tonya) Felhofer, Paula (Ron) Kerscher, Ellen (special friend, Joe) Felhofer, Matthew (Nancy) Felhofer, and Mark (Gina) Felhofer, his grandchildren Emily (Paul) Meyer, Christopher (Michelle) Kerscher, Megan (Justin) Kerscher-Walsh, Nathan (Megan) Felhofer, Benjamin (Hannah) Felhofer, Sarah (Chase) Graff, Jack (Bridget) Thomas, Angela Thomas, Sydney Felhofer, Stephanie Felhofer, Grace Felhofer, and Ryan Felhofer; great-grandchildren Braxton Meyer, Micah Felhofer, Liam Felhofer, Harrison Felhofer, and Athena Thomas; in-laws Marie Felhofer, Joanne Bosman, Georgiana "Georgi" Hanson, and Peter (Mary) Bosman; and the many people whose lives he touched through his work, his faith, and his community involvement.
Fran's life will be honored with a visitation on September 29, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Forbes Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on September 30, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Forbes Funeral Home, with a visitation starting at 10:00 AM. Those attending are invited to share stories, laughter, and memories of a man who lived life to the fullest.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Door County YMCA or the Door County Maritime Museum, continuing Fran's mission of making the world a better place, one project at a time.
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