Michael D. Frantz

Michael Dulin Frantz was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on March 12, 1937 to Doctor Mount E. Frantz and Aline Goodwin Frantz of Danville, Indiana. He lived in Danville during his early years, moving to Indianapolis when he was in middle school. He graduated from Shortridge High School in 1955. He then attended Allen Military Academy in Bryan, Texas, and later attended Indiana University and Butler University. Michael became a proud United States Marine in 1958, and was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps in 1960. 

Michael was in the printing business during his early working years. Later he was employed by AT&T (Indiana Bell) where he worked as a supervisor in the area of coin operated phones. "Good Morning, sports fans!" was his greeting to his employees each morning! He was noted for his sense of humor and corny jokes! He retired in 1991. 

Michael married Jill Gipson Barteau on Friday the 13th of August, 1971 in a ceremony in their backyard around the swimming pool. Their house was always full of children, their own and others, and they spent every summer entertaining guests at the pool. Michael complained about how much work the pool involved, but was in his element when the guests arrived to enjoy his labors! 

Michael was always ready to lend a helping hand to any neighbor or friend who needed it. He was a good handyman, and would jump to assist anyone who asked for help, as well as some who didn't ask! Michael was an avid player of chess and bridge, and his retirement centered around golf at Twin Lakes Golf Club, where he was a member for 36 years. 

He enjoyed travel, and made numerous trips to Europe with his wife, as well as traveling to other areas of the world. The winter months after retirement were spent enjoying the warm climates of Florida and Arizona, where again, golf was the highlight of the season. Michael and Jill also took the grandchildren on numerous trips during school breaks, and he thoroughly loved spending time with the children throughout his life.

Michael is survived by his wife, Jill Frantz; one brother, Patrick (Susie) Haas; four step-children, Betsy Barteau Krueger (Robert), Jan Barteau Berg, William V. Barteau (Tina) and Randall Mallory (Elizabeth); step-grandchildren, Josh Berg (Lindsay), Jake Berg (Alexandra), Joel Berg (Rosemary), Molly Krueger (Corey Smith), Carson Barteau (Olivia), Conner Barteau, and Collin Barteau; and four great-grandchildren. Michael was predeceased by his parents; sister, Sharon Franz; son-in-law, Jeffrey Berg; and two half sisters.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.