John E. E. Franklin

John Edward Eugene Franklin passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early morning of February 15, 2025, after a long battle with Parkinson’s. 

John was born April 9, 1941, in Indianapolis, IN to the late Russell and Lucille Franklin. He spent his childhood years on the westside of Indianapolis in Haughville spending many summers at his grandparents in Coatesville, IN with his cousin Skip.

John graduated from George Washington High School in 1959. He began his career after high school as a milkman for Borden’s Milk Company and moved on to become the owner and President of Allied Petroleum Equipment Corporation. He was a longtime member of the Petroleum Equipment Institute.

In the 80’s, John moved his family to Zionsville, IN. He joined The Zionsville Police Department as a reserve detective.

John never sat still. His main passion in life was golf. He was one of the original members of Wolf Run Golf Course. He joined Old Oakland Golf Course in his retirement. John loved cars. He enjoyed racing his black corvette and won several trophies. He liked cars so much, he built a touchless car wash in Zionsville.

John was preceded in death by his daughter Jackie Taylor, and grandson Shawn Franklin. He is survived by his life partner of nearly 35 years Sandy Snider; his cousin Skip Masten; his sons Gary (Cindy) Franklin, Ronald (Jill) Franklin, and Jerald Franklin; his grandchildren Ashley (Jonathan) Taylor, Dustin (Erika) Taylor, Chase Franklin, Alayna (Luke) Petro, and Nellie Franklin; eight great-grandchildren. 

A special thanks goes out to the staff at Prairie Lakes Health Campus for the compassionate care and support they provided John during his time at their facility. Another special thanks goes out to St. Croix Hospice for the kindness and empathy.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rock Steady Boxing at 6847 Hillsdale Court, Indianapolis, IN 46250. Rock Steady Boxing is a community fighting back together against Parkinson’s disease. To donate online, please click here.