Michael Dean Franklin Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Michael Dean Franklin Michael Dean Franklin, beloved son, brother, and proud uncle, age 53, passed away on Thursday March 3rd 2016, after a short courageous battle with cancer. His loving family took care of him, at home, till his last breath. He was born on October 10, 1962, in Leavenworth, WA to Jerry and Dorothy Franklin. Mike was a talented musician, playing several instruments which included drums, brass instruments and his favorite, the guitar. Therefore earning the nickname, “Guitar Mike”. He loved writing songs, singing at family gatherings, jamming with his friends, and occasionally participating in “open Mike” events at various places around town. He was very proud of his music and proud of the jobs he had, “but not proud of the way I lost them.” Mike ventured to Alaska to stay with his sister, and brother in law, in 1986, working on fishing boats and then landing a supervisor position at a cannery in Cordova, AK. He eventually was sent to Valdez, AK where he helped build the peter pan seafood cannery and became a fresh market supervisor. He was living in Valdez when the devastating Exxon Valdez oil spill happened. He was part of the “first 32” to see the spill and begin the long process of cleaning it up. He earned the nickname “skimmer Mike”. 5 years later he moved back to Washington and for 8 years, worked in refrigeration with McDougall and sons. He also worked for HR spinner as a forklift driver. Mike was also very proud of the fact our family found out that we are related to one of our countries founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin. Yes, first cousin 9th removed. He was very patriotic and beaming proud that 4 of his 6 nephews served our country and there is 2 that are still. One is a gunny sergeant and the other is a staff sergeant. Both are Marines. Mike is survived by his mother, Dorothy Oelke, brother Kevin (Debbie) Franklin, Sister Kerri (Pat) Walters, Nephews Dr. Christopher (Nichole) Franklin, Andrew Franklin, David (Alyson) Crawley, Mike Crawley, Patrick McWhinney and Hank McWhinney and a special friend, Julie Campbell, and a very special dog, Precious, who stayed by his side, laying with him when he lost mobility, never leaving his side till the end of his life. He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry K. Franklin, Paternal grandparents, Herman and Ann Franklin, maternal grandparents, Bill and Mary Hensley. A memorial service is planned at a later date upon return of one of his nephews who is deployed. Please express your thoughts and memories on the online guest book at jonesjonesbetts.com. Arrangements are by Jones & Jones – Betts Funeral Home.

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Michael Dean Franklin

October 10, 1962 - March 3, 2016