John W. Franke, age 56, of the Town of Little Rice, passed away at his home on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2020 with his life partner at his side and under the care of Ascension at Home Hospice.

John was born in Rhinelander on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 1964 to William G. and Karen A. (Rolain) Franke. John was raised in Rhinelander, where he attended school.

His disability didn’t allow him to work much, but when able he would help at Ray’s Auto and fix cars on his own.

John in his younger years attended and was confirmed at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church. He enjoyed snowmobiling, riding motorcycles and driving his “55” Chevy. But most of all, John enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

He will be dearly missed by his parents, William and Karen Franke of Rhinelander; his life partner, Lynn Blanchard of Little Rice; her children, Barbara of Tomahawk, Aaron of Rhinelander, Austin of Tomahawk; Lynn’s grandchildren, Alex, Joshua, Zayden, Taylynn and Neveah. Also surviving is a sister, Susan (Chris) Barton of Olympia, Wash.; and his brother, Thomas Franke of Rhinelander; a niece, Danielle (Tyler) Cunningham; two nephews, Zachary Barton and Tyler Castonguay; and a great-nephew, Waylon Cunningham. John is further survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Hyron and Lottie Franke; and maternal grandparents, Walter and Elin Rolain.

The visitation for John was held on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020 at the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, Rhinelander, from 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. Memorial Service. Chaplain Mark Ames officiated.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of John may be given to the family.

Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wis. 54501, 715-365-4343. You are invited to light a candle, sign the guestbook, leave a photo or an online condolence at www.hildebrandfh@yahoo.com.