John W. Franke, age 56, of Little Rice, died February 16, 2020, at home while under hospice care. He was born February 5, 1964, in Rhinelander to William and Karen (Rolain) Franke.

John is survived by his parents; his life partner, Lynn Blanchard of Little Rice, Lynn’s children, Barbara of Tomahawk, Aaron of Rhinelander, Austin of Tomahawk; Lynn’s five grandchildren; a sister, Susan (Chris) Barton of Olympia, Washington; a brother, Thomas Franke of Rhinelander; a niece, Danielle (Tyler) Cunningham; two nephews, Zachary Barton and Tyler Castonguay; a great-nephew, Waylon Cunningham; many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Hyron and Lottie Franke and maternal grandparents, Walter and Elin Rolain.

The visitation for John will be held 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 20, at the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m.. Chaplain Mark Ames will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John’s honor may be given to the family. You are invited to light a candle, sign the guestbook, leave a photo or an online condolence at [email protected]. (Hildebrand Funeral Home)