Lawrence "Larry" V. Franz

Lawrence (Larry) Victor Franz, 91, passed away at Presbyterian Manor in Newton, Kansas on May 22, 2017. Larry was born October 27, 1925 in Newton, KS. He was the son of Henry and Justina (Schmidt) Franz. His early years were spent in Goessel and Elbing area. He went to the Elbing Missionary Church. He attended Whitewater High School. Larry served in the United States Navy during World War II. He received basic training at New London, CT. He was then assigned to the US sub base Pearl Harbor where he served aboard a submarine in the Pacific. After the surrender of Japan, Larry sailed into the Sea of Japan. He was honorably discharged on February 14, 1946 with the rank of Motor Machinist's Mate 3rd Class. He returned home to Kansas where he worked on a farm. He met and married Marge Branen on May 6, 1947. They moved to Nashville, TN to continue his training in diesel mechanics. While living in Nashville their daughter, Sondra, was born. After completing his training, they moved back to Wichita where their son, Rick, was born. Larry was employed with Central Detroit Diesel in Wichita until his retirement. They raised their family in Valley Center. Larry loved hunting, fishing, and camping. His family enjoyed their camping trips. He was a lifetime member of the NRA. His best friend, Johnny Nickel and Larry spent many hours together hunting and fishing. Marge passed in January, 1993. In July 1997, he married Maxine Motter and moved to Newton, KS. Larry attended Koerner Heights Church. While living in Newton he loved the outdoors taking walks and watching the birds. In March of 2015, as his disease progressed, he moved to Presbyterian Manor. He was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Justine Franz and his son Rick Franz. He is survived by his wife Maxine Motter-Franz of Newton, daughter Sondra (Tim) Winningham of Wichita. Two step-children Veanna Unruh of Topeka, and Byron (Ann) Motter of Newton. Three grandchildren Steve (Vicki) Bradshaw of Colorado Springs, CO, Amy Franz, Jason Franz. Three great-grandchildren Koby, Kaden, and Delany Bradshaw of Viola, KS. Step-grandchildren Troy Unruh, Stephine (Chris) Thompson, Jill (Troy) Smith, and Lindsey Motter. Nine step-great-grandchildren Tyr, Thor, Grant, Sydney, Alex, Michael, Caleb, Jared, and Mason. Memorials in Larry's name can be made to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, 313 S. Market, Wichita, KS 67202.