Leland E. Franklin, Sr.
Dec. 3, 1926-April 11, 2015
Leland Franklin Sr. was reunited with his beloved family who preceded him in death and his spirit was healed in the early morning of April 11, 2015 surrounded by his wife of 51 years and his children and grandchildren, in the home of his daughter.
Mr. Franklin grew up in Daleville, IN the son of Homer and Nellie Franklin on a prosperous family farm.
He was the youngest of five children--and is survived by his brother, Glenn. He worked hard from sun up to sun down; however, he always made room for a bit of mischief with his brothers and sisters.
He started at General Motors (formerly Guide Lamp) right after he graduated from Daleville High School in 1945, while still working on the family farm. He retired from G.M. after 46 years of faithful service, holding several journeyman cards at the time and as the director of their safety division.
He was married to Delores (Eads) Franklin in 1963 and they remained married throughout his life. They would have celebrated 52 years of marriage on April 28.
He has three children, son Craig is deceased; son Leland (Angie) Franklin; daughter, Rebecca (Roger) Paschal; five grandchildren, Michael, Daniel, Noelle, Holly and Joshua--who were the light of his life.
He spent the last year of his life residing in Ohio at the home of his daughter and her family. There he enjoyed a renewed love of life, despite his illness.
Mr. Franklin is a cancer survivor. He was diagnosed for the first time in 1974 and fought this horrific illness with everything he had in him--and also with humor as this is how this family deals with things that come their way. He remained steadfast and faithful to the end. Cancer did not beat him, he passes now on to a well deserved rest that has been granted him after a long, hard fight--one he fought with bravery and tenacity. He joins his beloved son, parents and siblings who have gone on before him.
Leland was a long standing member of East Lynn Christian Church. He also was a member of Daleville Masonic Lodge, The Murat Shrine, and the Scottish Rite Temple.
In his earthly journey, Leland loved life. He and his wife enjoyed many adventures in travels here and abroad. He viewed life as one great adventure - to be embraced and loved fully. The family is comforted knowing he is now on his greatest adventure yet.
Service will be 11 a.m. Thursday, April 16 at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service with Rev. Nathan Lutterman officiating. Burial will be in East Maplewood Cemetery.
Visitation will be Wednesday, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday.
Memorial contributions may be given to East Lynn Christian Church; Mt. Carmel Hospice or Madison County Humane Society.
Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com.