Richard R Franke, 79, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. Born on June 29, 1944, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late William and Ann (Cenko) Franke. He was a member of St Peter’s Catholic Church, Fort Wayne, he grew up in his faith at St John the Baptist Catholic School, and was a member of the first freshman class at Bishop Luers High School, in 1958, the first graduating class of 1962, and was a member of the first football city championship for Luers in 1962. He was a part owner of Perfection Autowash Full Service Express, in the Village of Coventry, and was a part owner of the Fort Wayne Komets with his brothers, since 1990. Richard enjoyed summers, going to Coldwater lake, boating, playing tennis, swimming, jet skiing, working out at the Southwest YMCA, and taking trips to Marco Island, Florida. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Cherylene (Nahrwold) Franke; children, Pamela Franke, and, Jeffrey (Lori) Franke siblings, William Franke, Mary Erb, Stephen (Rebecca) Franke, David (Tina) Franke, and Michael (Theresa) Franke; and grandson, Logan (Emma) Franke. Funeral service will be 11:00am, Saturday, July 8, 2023, at D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave, Fort Wayne, with calling one hour prior. Calling will also be held from 3 to 7pm, Friday, July 7, 2023, at the funeral home. Burial will be in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorial donations may be given to St Peter’s Catholic Church, Fort Wayne, or Stillwater Hospice, of Fort Wayne.
