About
Thomas Frantz Obituary
Thomas was born on September 7, 1947, and raised in the Mishawaka and South Bend, Indiana area. He was a proud graduate of Riley High School (Class of 1966). In his youth, he enjoyed playing hockey and developed a lifelong appreciation for old-fashioned cars as well as NASCAR. Those who knew him in his younger years, remember his passion for hockey, NASCAR, and his love of classic automobiles.
As an adult, Thomas moved to Florida, where he built a long and dedicated career with Lee County as a supervisor. During those years, he established his professional life and eventually found deep comfort in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. The mountains brought him a sense of peace, and he later retired in Tennessee, where he lived for many years.
In time, Thomas returned to the Mishawaka/South Bend area to be near his mother during her illness and to be closer to his brother.
Thomas was preceded in death by his son, Sonny Splawski; his mother, Patty "Pat" Sommerfield; and his father, Verlin Frantz.
Thomas is survived by his brother, Terry Frantz; his beloved, longtime friend, Tony Travick; his daughters, Dawn Splawski and Andrea R. Wilgus; his stepson, Jerry T. Ferrell; his son-in-law, Ryan A. Wilgus (married to Andrea R. Wilgus); Cassie (married to Kolin Splawski); his grandchildren, Kolin Splawski, Austin Curry, Dylan Collins, Jae Wilgus, Fletcher Wilgus, and Ruby Wilgus; and his great-grandchildren, Sophie, Sonny, and Sadie Splawski.
While his family is saddened by the loss of a brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, they find comfort in knowing he is no longer in pain.
A memorial visitation will be held from 3:00-6:00pm on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Palmer Funeral Home-River Park Chapel, 2528 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend, IN.
Contributions in memory of Thomas may be donated to Heart to Heart Hospice, 620 E. Edison Road, Suite 122, Mishawaka, IN 46545.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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