John Edward Franzen

John Edward Franzen was born on April 23, 1962 in Riverdale, Minnesota to Robert and Shirley (Haugh) Franzen. He grew up in Omaha, Nebraska attending Beveridge Middle School and graduating from Burke High School in 1980. Growing up, John enjoyed the outdoors and spent time farming, hunting, 4 wheeling, motorcross racing, boating, skiing, and also playing hockey. John worked for many businesses throughout his life including Mobile Gas Station, U Fill It, Yutan Schools, and Family Fare, but his longest career was as a police officer for the Alliance, Mead, and Yutan Police Departments. On August 5, 2006, John and Joline were united in marriage at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Yutan, Nebraska. As an adult, John’s love for the outdoors continued; he spent his free time boating, fishing, enjoying wildlife, and practicing photography. Riding his motorcycle and taking trips to Sturgis was also a favorite pastime. He liked to cheer for his favorite teams: the Boston Bruins, Baltimore Orioles, and the Huskers. John enjoyed all types of music, but Aerosmith was his favorite band. Barbeque ribs or a good steak were some of John’s favorite foods, and he also liked to visit the China Buffet. His meals were best enjoyed with a Dr. Pepper. Most of all, John was a family man who valued time spent with his family and he loved being able to do activities with his grandchildren. John was known for his big personality, being a bit of a jokester, and for having a memory like an elephant. He was a great protector of his family, but was also kind, gentle, and a big Teddy Bear at heart. John never met a stranger, was very friendly to everyone, and had a heart of gold. He impacted the lives of many, especially with his time as a police officer, and will be missed deeply by both his family and by many members of his community. John was preceded in death by his fraternal grandparents, Edward J. and Margaret E. Franzen; maternal grandparents, Floyd and Margaret Haugh; and parents, Robert and Shirley Franzen. He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Joline Franzen; children: Anthony (Jennifer) Ivanow, Lydia Simmons, and Marie (Robert) Kendrick; grandchildren: Ika Ika, Skylynn, Martyn, Bella, Chase, Josi, Josh, John, Michael, Antwan, and Kendarius; sisters: Cathy (Jerry) Hibbeler, Caroline Franzen, and Mary Kay Kincaid; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

John Edward Franzen

April 23, 1962 - April 28, 2024