1943-2007
Woodstock, CT- Richard W. Franklin, 63, of Stone Hill Rd., died suddenly after a courageous battle with brain cancer. He was the beloved husband of Suzanne (Vaillant) Franklin for 40 years. Born and raised in Putnam, he was the son of Irene (Cierpich) Franklin of Dayville and the late Fredrick Franklin. He lived in Putnam until moving to Woodstock three years ago.
Richard was a 1961 graduate of Putnam High School where he was a three sport athlete setting records in basketball. He was a 1966 Graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy. Richard and Suzanne owned and operated Franklin Pharmacy for 17 years. Together they raised four daughters whom he cherished and became involved with their many activities throughout the years. He absolutely adored his seven grandchildren and was happiest watching them grow. He loved spending time with his family and would want to be remembered as a true family man.
Richard was a lifelong member of the Congregational Church of Putnam and was a recipient of the Paul Harris Award from Rotary International. He was an avid golfer and member of Quinnatisset Country Club. He enjoyed sailing the Independence, fishing, kayaking and traveling. He had a genuine love of people which led him to serve in many civic organizations and on various community boards, including the Putnam Board of Education for eight years. He also served as a Putnam Alderman.
Besides his wife and mother, he is survived by four daughters, Amy Ponte and her husband Rick of Woodstock, Melissa Duncan and her husband Jeffrey of Eastford, Rebecca Anderson and her husband Otto of Eastford and Allison Peterson of Putnam; two brothers, Roger Franklin of Putnam and Charles Franklin of Pomfret Center, a brother in law and best friend, Gerry Vaillant and his wife Sandy of Putnam, seven grandchildren, Jessica, Cody, Chase, Parker, Garrett, Dominic and Olivia and many relatives, friends, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son-in-law, Joshua Peterson and close friend David Anderson.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit with Richard’s family on Friday, April 13, 2007 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. in the Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church St., Putnam, Ct. His Funeral Service will be held Saturday, April 14, 2007 at 11:00 am in the Congregational Church of Putnam, 175 Main St., Putnam. Donations may be made to the Richard W. Franklin Memorial Fund c/o Citizens National Bank, 182 Main St., Putnam, Ct 06260
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