Kenneth Franks

Kenneth Franks passed away Thursday, June 1st, while doing something he loved

Ken was born October 25, 1954 to Jim and Ida Franks. He grew up in the Bellwood Antis area where he learned to love nature and spent much of his time outdoors, regardless of the season. He was a proud member of the Bellwood Antis Blue Devils Football Team until he graduated in 1972. In January 1974 he enlisted in the United States Air Force and completed his training at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi. The bulk of his service was spent in Turkey at Incirlik A.F. base, where he spent his time monitoring Soviet Forces electronic comunications. He was honorably discharged in December 1979.

The GI bill allowed him to obtain a Bachelor's of Arts in Political Science. He graduated summa cum laude from Penn State in 1981. On October 3rd of that same year he married the love of his life, Joan Marie McConnell, at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. They had 3 children; Jim  1984; Elaine Margie 1987; Jared 1989. As a young family they spent many vacations outdoors; fishing, camping, and enjoying nature & history.

Ken was able to retire from the post office in January 2013. This allowed him to spend the rest of his retirement doing what he loved. Pap loved his grandchildren. He was always a best friend to his buddy Ethan, fellow animal scientist with Zeke, mischievious goofball with AB, & was perpetually wrapped around the little finger of his only grandaughter, Ellie. He was able to spend quality time with his newest grandson, Baby James, who was born on April 12 of this year. Pap was always there for his family and would drop everything to "rescue" his wife & kids from various minor perils.

He enjoyed reading on all subjects & instilled that same love into his family. Pap was an avid  outdoorsmen & naturalist. He loved to search for a bald eagle's nest from the seat of his kayak.  He loved to watch the seasons change while riding his bicycle, hiking, or skiing through the region. His last hours on earth were spent fishing, planning a camping trip, & riding his road bike. His family will miss him greatly.

Friends will be received from 3 – 7 PM at Jones Funeral Home on Monday, June 6, 2016 where a Funeral Service will be held at 7:00 PM. Blair County Honor Guard will provided Military Services.