Robert Franklin

Robert Franklin, Sr.

Lansing, Michigan

Passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at the age of 98. Born March 11, 1927 to Lonnie and Irene (McCalister) Franklin in Greenfield, Tennessee. Bob joined the US Navy during WWII and served in the Pacific where he was a part of the Seabees that helped build infrastructure for US troops and allies. At the age of 19 he moved to Lansing Michigan in pursuit of employment. As a bonus he found his sweetheart Arleen and they had 6 children together. He was employed with Lansing's Motor Wheel for many years as an Inspector and retired at the age of 62. He enjoyed coaching his sons and their baseball teams. He also spent many years playing golf with his family and the Optimist Club. Bob was a member and past president of the Miller Road Optimist Club in Lansing for many years. He organized, coached and refereed youth sports programs. This gave the opportunity to many kids in the neighborhood to participate in sports. He was an avid MSU Basketball fan cheering on both his Men's and Women's Spartan teams. Bob also enjoyed music, gardening and tinkering in his sheds along with telling stories of his many years here on Earth. He was loved by many and will be missed dearly by all who remember him. He is remembered as a "great man who encouraged a lot of kids to learn and excel". Preceding him in death were his wife of 64 years, Arleen Franklin; son, David Franklin; brother, Arthur "Art" Franklin; sisters, Lois (Woodrow) Franklin and Ruth (Joe) Fuqua as well as his parents.

Surviving are his daughters, Debbie (Jim) Holefka, Judy Franklin (Dan O'Malley) , Fee aka Cathy (Bob) Dionise; sons, Bob (Trish) Franklin Jr., Mike (Laura) Franklin; daughter-in-law, Kelly Franklin; grandchildren, Meghan (Scott) Holmes, Scott (Jenn) Holefka, Ryan (Ann) Franklin, Amber Franklin, Claire (Mitch) Henrys, Shawn Franklin, Sarah (Terry) Grant, Lizzie (Benji) Mahlich, Matt Arbour, Steven Dionise, Adam Franklin, Anna Taylor, Tori Cowan (Joe Pulling), Andrew Cowan (Hailee Loch); great grandchildren, Parker, Emerson, Remi, Mia, Cam, Ethan (Sydney), Terrence, Alayna, Gavin, Logan, Greyson; brother, William (Dee) Franklin; Sister, Frances (Daryl) Penick; special neighbor, Vivian Lowry; caregiver, Shay Wilson as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Skinner Funeral Home, Lansing Chapel with visitation starting at 12:00 Noon. Following the service please join the family at Bob's home located at 6054 Daft Street Lansing for food and refreshments.

For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Greater Lansing Optimist Club, 653 Worthington Dr. Lansing, MI 48906, in memory of Bob. To share memories and condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com