Darwin Keith Franklin, age 93, died Thursday, Oct. 17.
Darwin loved spending time outdoors, specifically hunting, farming and fishing. One of his biggest hobbies was trapping and collecting furs. He would trap everything from raccoons, minks and muskrats.
Darwin had an eye for antiques and amassed a neat collection of arrowheads and banks. He would spend many afternoons searching for arrowheads on the family farm.
Darwin is survived by his wife, Suzanne Franklin; children Sherrie (Bill) Lewis, Vickie Weichlein, Rick (Robin) Hinckley, Sandy Olney, Kay (Jim) Kunz; 13 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; nieces Becky (Bud) Rowe, Cathy (Steve) Snider; and extended relatives and friends.
Darwin was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Katherine Franklin; second wife, June Franklin; and sister, Audrey (Harold) Willard.
Darwin will be laid to rest at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, at Maplewood Cemetery in Hopkins, with military honors. The family will welcome guests to a memorial visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the Hall at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 1871 136th Ave., Dorr, with prayers of the Rosary at 6 p.m.
In memory of Darwin and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hopkins FFA (hopkinsffa.com).
