Arthur Thomas Franson

He was the third of four siblings: Robert, Eileen, Arthur and Dottie. All have preceded him in death.

Arthur (also known and Tommy) grew up in Chelsea, Massachusetts, where he eventually joined the Navy in 1946. Stationed on the USS Los Angeles in the Pacific Theater, he spent most of his duty chasing pirates in the South China Seas.

He was honorably discharged in Los Angeles, where he met a young Donna Jean Campbell at the beach in Long Beach. On that same day, his best friend from the Navy, Frank (Banky) Doucette, met and eventually married mom’s best friend, Donna Mae.

The four of them had many adventures together including many cruises to places like Antarctica, the Mediterranean, Alaska, Mexico, the Caribbean, Australia & New Zealand, and Europe.

Dad and mom were fortunate to have purchased a second home in Big Bear in 1979. They enjoyed their time together in Big Bear and made many more memories in the cabin with their best friends (the Doucettes) as well as family.

In 1949, they had their first child, Donald, and in 1954 had their second child, Alicia. Mom and Dad settled in Gardena California in 1954. They lived in the Gardena house for 40 years. Dad worked at North American Aviation, Rockwell International, Rocketdyne, and Boeing before retiring in 1992. After retiring, they moved to Lake Elsinore, California, and bought a house next door to their best friends, Donna Mae and Banky.

Arthur’s Catholic faith was strong and he participated in daily Mass when he was able. He and Donna were Eucharistic Ministers at St. Frances Catholic Church in Wildomar and helped promote the building of Maria Regina Catholic Church in Gardena, St. Frances Catholic Church in Wildomar, and St. Joseph of the Pines Catholic Church in Big Bear.

Arthur lived a full and wonderful life with the love of his life for more than 74 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife Donna, his daughter, Alicia (Jack) his son, Don (Marie), grandsons Matt (deceased), Brandon, Tony, Joe, and great grandchildren Michael, Natalie, Mikayla, Isabel, Gabriel, and Lucy.

The joy and love he gave to all of us will be treasured forever. You have fought the good fight and it is time to come home to the Lord.