Langdon Storer Franz

Langdon Storer Franz, affectionately known as Don, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, at Pardee Hospital in Hendersonville, NC. Born on April 7, 1937, in Garden City, NY, Don lived a fulfilling life of 88 years, marked by dedication to his family, faith, and community.

Don began his career with Shell Oil before becoming the owner and operator of the Levittown Better America Gas Station, where he was known for his hard work and commitment to service. His professional journey was complemented by his educational achievements, including an Associate's degree in Accounting.

A proud veteran, Don served in the US Army 1st Division, "The Big Red 1," where he exemplified the values of honor and duty. He was a devout member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where he actively participated in the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree and served as Pro-Life Director. His leadership extended to his role as Past President of the NY Thirsty Knights Chapter of Stein Collectors International and as a past board member of the Board of Directors of Open Arms Ministries. He also served as a security guard at Pardee Hospital for 16 years.

Among his many contributions, he took immense pride in establishing the Open Arms Annual Bake Sale, an initiative that consistently raised significant funds for the Open Arms Ministry, aiding those in need.

Don's interests were as diverse as they were vibrant. He enjoyed bowling and square dancing and took great pride in coaching the Garden City Rams Youth Football League, where he inspired many young athletes.

He is preceded in death by his beloved son, Mark Eben Franz; his parents, Charles Franz and Frances Storer Franz; his brother, Charles Eben Franz; nephew, Kevin Robinson and his brother-in-law, John D. Robinson.

Don is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Loretta Anziano Franz; his loving daughters, Patricia L. Butler (Max) of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, and Christine M. Carver (Wil) of Hendersonville, NC; his cherished sons, Stephen Langdon Franz (Christina) of Hedgesville, WV, and Dennis Joseph Franz (Nancy) of Wake Forest, NC. He leaves behind a legacy through his grandchildren, Curtis Franz, Langdon Franz, Timothy J. Franz, Aaron Franz, Timothy S. Franz, Heather Franz, Hannah Franz, Emmakate Franz, Pierce Butler, Mark Holt Butler, Caroline Butler, Ava Carver, Sarah Carver, Hannah Curtis, and Catherine Barker; as well as his great-grandchildren, Keiden Franz, Severus Franz, Aubrey Franz, Cecilia Franz, Brianna Franz, Emily Franz, Darien Franz, Whitney Franz, Titus Franz, Levi, Kannan, Anslee Curtis, Houston Carter and Campbell Barker. Don is also survived by his sister, Althea Robinson and his sister-in-law, Dorothy Franz.

A Mass of Resurrection will be held at Immaculate Conception Church on Friday, September 26,2025 at 2:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to Open Arms Pregnancy Center 4005 Asheville Hwy, Hendersonville, NC 28791 or to Immaculate Conception Church for the Peru Mission, specifying that "Peru Mission" should be noted in the memo line, 208 7th Avenue West, Hendersonville, NC 28791.

Don's life was a testament to his unwavering faith, love for his family, and commitment to his community. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.