James Franke
Batchtown |
James Louis Franke, 86, passed away on April 30, 2024, at Calhoun Nursing and Rehab in Hardin, Illinois, surrounded by his loved ones.
Big Jim was born to Elmer and Mary Jane (Tribble) Franke on March 14, 1938, in Batchtown, Illinois. He married Bonita Loene Snyders on July 13, 1963.
He is survived by his wife Bonnie, two sons, Scott (Kim) Franke and Jim (Sheila) Franke, and two daughters, Lori (Scott) Hopkins and Nikki Simon (Chris Nichols). Also surviving are his grandchildren Brandi (Derek), Faith, Craig, Kyle, Kristen (Kevin), Shayelle, Delani, Korrie, Lila, Liam, and Lucas, as well as his great-grandchildren Kaylee, Sawyer, Kennedy, Tucker, and Lane, brothers- and sisters-in-law, Don and Peggy Snyders, Phil and Eva Snyders, and Gene Snyders, and several other cherished family members and friends.
In addition to his parents, Craig James Franke (son), Andrew Robert Dominguez (grandson), Laura Lou and Jim Prange (sister and brother-in-law), Raphael and Phyllis Snyders (parents-in-law), Joyce and Norman Titus (sister-in-law and brother-in-law) preceded him in death.
Big Jim was a people person who dedicated his entire adult life to serving his country as a United States Marine. He lived “Semper Fi,” faithful to himself, his Corps, his Country, and his God, which he held forever engrained in his heart and mind. He also served as an Illinois State Trooper and vehicle investigator. His commitment to law and order and patriotism was unwavering, and he brought this dedication to his work as Hardin’s Chief of Police in the incredible Calhoun community. Big Jim enjoyed bringing joy and laughter through pranks and jokes; and if you were his victim, then, without a doubt, he loved you.
Big Jim’s family is immensely thankful for the abundant love and support they have received. It is challenging to put into words how much they value everyone’s kindness during this difficult period. Being part of a community where such a vast display of love and compassion is customary is a genuine blessing.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Gress, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home in Hardin.
Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Barbara Church in Batchtown, Illinois.
A Military Honors Ceremony will follow at St. Barbara Cemetery in Batchtown.
Memorials can be made to:
St. Vincent de Paul Society of Blessed Trinity and Saint Francis of Assisi is an organization that provides temporary assistance to low-income residents of Calhoun County by providing food, utilities, clothing, and other items of need.
Marine Corps League Robert Windle Detachment #1091 is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting military families, promoting citizenship, and upholding traditions and patriotism within the community.
Online condolences may be given atwww.kallalandschaaf.com.
Gress, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home
