Dr. Aris William Franklin

(1924 to 2012)

Born on February 8th, 1924 in Akron, Ohio, Aris was preceded in death by his wife, Carol; daughter, Carolyn Diane Franklin; and brother, Alex William Franklin. Survivors are son, Timothy William Franklin; daughter-in-law, Sheryl Franklin; granddaughter, Carolyn Janice (CJ); and grandson, Parker Franklin.

He attended The Ohio State University and completed his undergraduate studies in 1944. While at school, he was an Academic All America in tennis. He captured the Big Ten tennis championships in both singles and doubles to help lead OSU to two Big Ten tennis championships. He was inducted into the OSU Sports Hall of Fame and the Summit County Sports Hall of Fame.

He graduated from The Ohio State Medical School in 1948 where he was Chief of Residents at Ohio State Medical Center from 1951 to 1952. For over 48 years, Dr. Franklin oversaw the development of the Wadsworth-Rittman Hospital's radiology department which grew from him to over 40 technicians. While there, he was Chief of Staff three times, a 30 year member of the Summit County Advisory Committee and produced several published works in the field of diagnostic imaging.

In addition to his medical career, he served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1952-54 on a destroyer on the Mediterranean Sea. He also served on the Akron Public School Board for twelve years with two terms as president. Aris was a proud resident of Bath Township for 41 years and supporter of many local charities including the Akron Art Museum.

Although celebrated for many achievements during his life, Aris was most grateful for his many lifelong friendships, his son and daughter, granddaughter and grandson, his daughter-in-law and the contentment of creating a home with his beloved wife Carol.

There will be no calling hours or funeral service.

(Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)