Richard Joseph Franz

Richard Joseph Franz (December 7, 1950 - June 4, 2024), Financial Advisor, adventurer, lifelong learner, and dedicated mentor, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Rick leaves behind a legacy of courage, exploration, passion, and generosity that will continue to inspire and uplift all who follow in his footsteps.
Rick fearlessly explored the world around him, leaving a trail of inspiration in his wake. Rick raced cars as a young adult and again later in life with his son. He built and piloted an ultralight, flew RC gliders and stunt kites, rappelled, kayaked, and skied. He rode WaveRunners, dirt bikes, ATVs, and snowmobiles. He skippered a J27 with a sailing team in Baltimore's Inner Harbor for many years and took his wife on expeditions to the southwest with the FJ Bruisers, an off-road club. Rick lived his life to the fullest extent and he encouraged everyone around him to do the same, igniting the same spirit of exploration and wonder in all who had the privilege to know him.
Throughout his life, Rick remained a steadfast advocate for learning and growth, constantly seeking to expand his horizon and share his knowledge and passions with others. His dedication to mentorship was unwavering, as he generously committed his time and guidance to many youth and young adults. Rick actively worked with organizations such as the Bowling Brook Preparatory School, Carroll County Recreation & Parks, Wounded Warriors, and the Boy Scouts of America, leaving behind an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals.
Yet, perhaps most enduring of all, was Rick's gift for telling a great story. With each tale, his larger-than-life persona captivated us, entertained us, and taught us, even if it was our fifth or eighth time hearing the story. We were always spellbound and infected with his enthusiasm for life.
Rick will be remembered fondly by everyone who knew him. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathleen Franz, his brother, Craig Franz, and his children and their spouses: Heather & Chris Nichols, Garrett & Sarah Franz, Ian & Danielle Franz, as well as his five grandchildren.
As an Eagle Scout, he embodied the values of preparedness, service, and leadership. Rick would be delighted to have you use the link below to donate to the Boy Scouts of America in his honor.
https://donations.scouting.org/#/council/220/appeal/7837
Smith Funeral & Cremation Care and SFCC Crematory of Westover / Morgantown, (304) 292-9494, is providing compassionate professional services to the family.
Messages of comfort and other symbolic gestures may be offered to the family at www.smithfcc.com.