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Laura Franklin Obituary
Laura was born to Frank and Anna Merlitti in Akron on November 15, 1917 and lived on North Hill in Akron until the mid-1960's when she moved to Cuyahoga Falls. In 1985 she moved to Silver Lake Village and, in 1992, to Stow. In early 2008 she entered Stow Glen Retirement Village after a short hospital stay. Laura's cousins, Pat Troyer and Patty Bujorian, were instrumental in caring for her as she transitioned from living independently to living in a care facility. Her final move came in 2008 when, at the age of 90, Laura moved to Beaverton, Oregon, to be close to her nephew, Tom Armeli.
Laura graduated from North High in 1938 and attended Kent State University as an Art major in both the Education College and the Commercial Art College. After college, she taught for many years in the Akron and the Revere School Systems. Additionally, Laura started the Franklin Charm School of Akron, which she operated for many years teaching young girls to become young ladies. In 1947 she married the late Paul R. 'Duke' Franklin.
A well known artist and teacher, Laura was a member of the Women's Art League for over 60 years, serving as the League's President in 1968 and Treasurer in 1970. She was an avid world traveler having visited much of Europe and the Middle East including Iran. Perhaps her favorite destination was Italy, which she visited several times over the years. Her final trips overseas came in 1993 and 1997 when she visited Germany, Great Britain, France, Austria, Switzerland the Czech Republic and Italy.
Laura was loved by all who knew her and she will be missed.
Services will be held Saturday, December 5th at 1 p.m. at the Ciriello & Carr Funeral Home at 810 Portage Trail in Cuyahoga Falls. Viewing begins at 12 noon. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.
330-928-7116
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Memories and Condolences
for Laura Franklin
5 Entries
Mike McNeil
December 10, 2009
I am so grateful to have know Laura while she was living at Hearthstone in Beaverton, Oregon. As a dining room server, I always enjoyed visiting with Laura and serving her. She was so kind and sweet to me and others, and I will greatly miss her!
Harry and Dottie Crumling
December 4, 2009
We were fortunate to meet Laura through our friend and Laura's nephew, Tom Armeli. Our memories are of a warm and lovely woman who was an instant friend. She's an inspiration to all who wish to live a long and full life! Our sympathies to her family and friends.
Rich Mier
December 3, 2009
Laura was mom's--Jean Merlitti Mier--cousin and friend. She stayed close to mom until her passing a few years back. I will always remember Laura as a personable and kind lady who never had a bad word to say about anyone.
On behalf of mom our prayers and sympathy.
Patty Bujorian
December 3, 2009
Cousin Laura was a wonderful example of living life to the fullest, taking care of yourself so you are able to enjoy that life and being true to yourself. This lovely lady will be missed but her life will live on through many fond memories.
Patty Conway
December 3, 2009
I had the pleasure of meeting Laura when I was her home care nurse a couple of years ago. She was one of the sweetest women I had ever met. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to her family at this very sad time. May she now rest in the comfort of God's loving arms.
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