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BORN
1947
DIED
2023
Ron Franklin Obituary
Ronnie came from a large farming family and grew up in Wever, lowa, with brothers Terry, Gordon, Roger, Dale and Donnie, and sisters Bonnie Jean, Becky Jo and RaeJean. At the age of 20, Ronnie drove up the Alaska Highway to visit his brother, Terry. He fell in love with Alaska and never looked back. He met Hobo Benson from Galena and spent seven years there tending bar.
Ron and Terry purchased the Chatanika Lodge in 1975 and it burned to the ground in 1976. They pulled a old horse barn from the back lot.
With family members and friends, Chatanika Lodge was rebuilt. Ronnie had a huge heart enjoying many activities at the lodge, such as the Outhouse Races from 1979-2010, children's Christmas parties, Easter egg hunts, annual car and bike shows, luaus, Halloween, turtle races, fireworks at New Years, snowmachine high/low pea run, and hosting the Harley Davidson hog run.
Ronnie is survived by his wife, Shirley, of 41 years; brother, Roger; sisters, Becky and RaeJean; and many nieces and nephews he dearly loved.
Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Merle, brothers, Terry, Gordon, Dale and Donnie; and sister, Bonnie.
A celebration of life and potluck will be at 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023, at Chatanika Lodge. To honor Ronnie's wishes, he wanted to have a big party for everyone. Chatanika Lodge will supply the meat.
Please bring a dish and your favorite story to share.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ron Franklin
Claudia in Arizona
March 31, 2024
Shirley, I was thinking of you and Ron recently while remembering my visits to Alaska. I enjoyed talking with both of you when I stopped in on different trips. I was saddened to learn today of Ron's passing, and I am so sorry for your loss.
Gregg Hakkila
November 2, 2023
Sympathy for Don´s family.
Alf and Wendy Hopen
August 23, 2023
A great man, with a big heart! Can still hear that "laugh"!
Alan O´Neil
August 19, 2023
Shirley,
So incredibly sorry about Ron´s passing. He was an absolute gem of a person. He was kind, witty, creative and always could put a smile on someone´s face. I remember him from the work-related gatherings at the lodge. You guys were always such gracious hosts.
Sincerely,
Alan O´Neil - formerly Fairbanks resident, now Grand Forks ND.
Ted and Suzy Coronel
August 16, 2023
Thank you, Ronnie and Shirley, for many incredible memories; for the food, the drinks, for the music, for the laughter. We'll always cherish the time and the love we had out at the lodge.
~ Ted and Suzy Coronel
Frank & Gloria Edgington (Frank's Place))
August 15, 2023
You will be Missed Ron. Thank you for all the memories. Showing up for motorcycle shows and and rides and doing all your participating no matter the event..Love you Shirley...Frank & Gloria Edgington (Frank's Place)
Brent LeValley
August 14, 2023
Really hard to know where to start and thanks for sharing so many wonderful memories. Starting with my son´s 1st Christmas on Santa`s lap at the lodge. Many golden days parades with Johnny riding with you in the Thunderbird. You´ll be missed. Rest in peace, my friend.
Ray Martinez
August 14, 2023
My condolences to Shirley. Ronnie was always a gracious host at the Chatanika Lodge during my (almost) 19 year stay at Poker Flat. I am sure he'll be missed by many.
Barbara J Ziemblicki
August 13, 2023
I just don't know how to put into words how much Ron and Shirley mean to me. I will miss you Ron. I love you and Shirley with all of my heart. Until we meet again my friend. Love you to the moon and back. Barb (Gilbert) Ziemblicki
Lanny Petrie
August 2, 2023
I am surprised and saddened by Ronnie's passing. He and shirley were/are such wonderful people. I always had a great time whenever I went out there. Used to sit and talk with ronnie when things were slow enough to sit and grab. RIP my dear friend. You will be sorely missed by all.
Mary
August 2, 2023
I am very sorry that Fairbanks has lost one of its legends. A kind,sweet,funny man that treated everyone he ever met as family. Deepest sympathy Shirley. I always loved seeing you both come into A&W over the years and attending the famous Outhouse Races and first bike rides of the season. Ronnie will be among many friends in heaven. RIP Ronnie
Lynda Kauth
August 1, 2023
You will be missed. I remember all the fun we had when I stayed.
Lynda Kauth
Golden Heart
Jutta Pence
August 1, 2023
Shirley, I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept our condolences.
Jutta and Rodney
Pat Rasmus
August 1, 2023
I've known Ronnie since he and Shirley bought the lodge in 1974, I work for Coca-Cola back then and delivered Coca-Cola to the lodge, then after it burnt I made another delivery out to the lodge, over the years Ronnie has treated me like family, and I'm going to miss him tremendously! My condolences to Shirley and the family! My heart is broken! Rip Ronnie!
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