Roger Raymond Franklin

Roger Raymond Franklin, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2024, in Eldon, IA, at the age of 84. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 8, 2024, at the Living Hope Bible Church in Eldon, IA with Pastor John Cooper and Pastor Mark Clark officiating. Burial will be in the Iowaville cemetery immediately following. The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at the Living Hope Bible Church in Eldon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Roger's honor may be directed to the Old Iron Show or to the Iowaville Cemetery Association. Friends may leave online condolences or access the livestream at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Roger Raymond Franklin was born on January 31, 1939, in Ft. Madison, IA, to the late Albert and Merle Clark Franklin. He was raised in the Green Bay Bottoms in Wever, IA and was a graduate of Denmark High School, class of 1957. After graduation, he married Nancy Ann Deeds, and together they embarked on a journey of love, family, and farming near Wever. Their union was blessed with four wonderful children: Robben, Rex, Reesa, and Rachel.

Roger's work ethic was unparalleled. He was a farmer from an early age. Roger spent time working at J.I. Case in Burlington, IA as well as First Miss Fertilizer Plant in Wever. He also worked on a dredge in the Mississippi River. In 1973, he and Nancy moved to Eldon, IA, where they continued their passion for farming. Roger operated Franklin Farms & Ag Services where he did custom trucking and seeding for many local farmers. Roger had been an active part of the Tri-County Grain Corporation since 1980, contributing significantly to the agricultural community. Flying was one of Roger's greatest passions. He loved nothing more than soaring above the Iowa landscape in his plane, experiencing the freedom of the skies. His love for farming was equally profound, and he found great satisfaction in working the land and nurturing the crops that sustained his family and community.

Roger's devotion to his family was the cornerstone of his life. He is survived by his loving children, Robben (Lori Ann) Franklin, Rex (Lori) Franklin, and Rachel (Ryan) Hickenbottom, all of Eldon, IA. His legacy continues through his ten grandchildren, Sylvia (Tyler) Wagler, Jordan (Derek) Crow, Erin Franklin, Cassie (Will) Cannon, Colte Franklin (Bobbi Jo Markle), Cami Franklin (Nick Wallace), Madison Durflinger (Jake Hunerdosse), Maclain Hickenbottom, Maelin Hickenbottom, and Mavryn Hickenbottom, and his seven great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories and lessons he imparted. Roger is also remembered by his two sisters, Becky Lirette and Raejean Bonham, both of Alaska, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Reesa and five brothers, Terry, Gordon, Dale, Donnie, and Ronnie. His life was enriched by his special son-in-law, the late Timmy Rogers, two special friends, Tana Crane and Debb Murphy, and a host of extended family and friends who were touched by his generous spirit.

Roger cared deeply for his children and grandchildren, ensuring that each one felt his love and support in all their endeavors. The Franklin family takes comfort in knowing that Roger's legacy will live on through the values he instilled in his family, the land he so lovingly tended, and the community he helped to build and support.