John A. Franke

November 22, 1950 – April 14, 2024

John A. Franke, age 73 of Mellen, WI passed away at home with his loving family by his side after a courageous battle with Parkinson's and a miraculous 7 year survival with Glioblastoma.

John was born in Milwaukee, November 22, 1950 to Albert and Elizabeth Franke.

He graduated from Chilton High School in 1968. He attended UW-Stevens Point for 2 ½ years before serving in the Army Reserves from 1970 – 1976.

In May of 1971, he married his loving wife Connie Bayliss in Ashland, WI. They raised their family near Rosholt, WI for 25 years before moving to Twin Lakes in Mellen, WI.

John worked for 29 years for BASF/Vulcan Materials as a maintenance mechanic and a lab technician.

He loved the outdoors and spent his free time hunting at his beloved Blue Ribbon Camp with his nephews and friends, fishing, and hiking/bird hunting with his dog, Lizzy. He also enjoyed fishing in Canada and Nascar races in Bristol, TN with friends and family.

John is survived by his wife Connie; daughters, Autumn of Rothschild, WI; Melanie (Andy) of MN. Grandchildren Quinnley and Liam. Sisters-in-law Mary and Pat (Sterling). Niece Leah (Kevin) and godson Athan. And many special nephews, nieces, and friends.

John was preceded in death by his son, Justin; his parents and siblings; his in-laws Robert and Esther Bayliss of Ashland, WI.

A special thanks for the compassionate and loving end of life care from daughters Autmn and Melanie, son-in-law Andy, niece Leah, and nephew Rick.

The family would like to thank Regional Hospice, Duluth Neurology, MMC Cancer Center, MMC Speed Therapy and Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society of Schofield for their wonderful care of John and the family.

A private celebration of life will be held over Memorial Day weekend.

Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS