Michael Gary Franz

Michael Franz, age 77, passed away peacefully after a brief illness. He is survived by his beloved wife Marianne (Mari) Franz (Wooster) of forty years, his daughter Renae Moomjian (Franz) of Tucson, Arizona, his son Sean Franz of Seattle, Washington, his two grandchildren Helena & Armen Moomjian and his brother Robert (Gabriele) Franz, nieces, nephews and many cherished friends. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Fritz (Karen) Franz, Niccolas Franz and parents, Gerold & Dorthea (Wallace) Franz. He retired from Grand Rapids Community College after 37 years as an English & Film professor. Mike tirelessly gave back to the community, including 40 years in the global education peace movement. He was active in many volunteer groups including Institute for Global Education, Senior Advocates, Stephen Ministry, Earth Keepers, Moveon.org, Spectrum Health Continuing Care (volunteer pianist for the shut-ins), He had a deep faith in God and was a 25 year member of Trinity Lutheran Church serving 23 years as a keyboardist in the Contemporary Worship Services and many other committees. He was an avid golfer, bowler, gardener and loved life. He made every-day count. His neighbors remember fondly waving and smiling as he walked the family dogs and made friends with everyone he met. He is survived by his pup and buddy Joey. His early life; he was born in Horicon, Wisconsin. He grew up in Heritage Hill/Grand Rapids, attended Union High School and Western Michigan University (BA & MA degrees). Celebration of Mike’s life will be in the Spring at Trinity Lutheran Church with Pastor Bob Linstrom in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A private burial service was held.