Richard Franzen

Richard Franzen passed away on March 24, 2025 at age 94.

Richard was born on September 17, 1930 in Joliet, IL, where he grew up. He trained to be a radar technician in the United States Air Force, gaining skills he later used to work in the electronics industry. He married Ann Elizabeth Grissinger in 1957. They settled in Joliet, where he designed and built the family home on Old Elm Road. After retirement, the two of them enjoyed rehabilitating numerous homes in the area. Richard and Ann moved to Tucson, AZ in 1996, which was a great location to explore and to base their travels from. They returned to Illinois 23 years later, settling in Plainfield. Since retirement, Richard has kept sharp by following politics and by researching and investing in the stock market.

Richard Franzen is survived by his two children, Cheryl (Thomas) Sheridan and Robert Franzen (Lesley Gilmore); two grandchildren, Jenine (Sheridan) Connolly and Mathew (Morgan) Sheridan; three greatgrandchildren, Emma, Dylan and Gavin Connolly. He is preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Ann Franzen (Grissinger), and parents Robert and Elizabeth (Smith) Franzen.

We are grateful to the staff at Ciel (formerly Harbor Chase) for the care they provided at their facility in Plainfield, IL.

Per his request, his remains are to be cremated. The service will be private.

Donations would be appreciated to Lightways Hospice of Joliet.