William Franks

Oct 4, 1938 -

Nov 30, 2022

Born on Oct. 4, 1938, Gene passed away on Nov. 30, 2022, with his loving family by his side.

Gene is survived by his wife of 63 years, JoAnn Franks; and devoted son, Dean Franks of Palmer, Alaska; sister, Dorothy Nilsen; and brother, Eric Nilsen of California; and the Adler and Buckles families of California and Texas.

Gene was preceded in death by his mother, Genevieve Exum; father, Ray Franks; and numerous other relatives.

Gene and JoAnn were married on July 5, 1959, in Greeley, Colo., and welcomed their son Dean a year later. Gene entered the Marine Corps, when he was 17, and served for 11 years, completing three tours in Vietnam as a helicopter mechanic and gunner. After discharge from the Marines, Gene went into the private sector, becoming a helicopter pilot for Flight For Life serving St. Anthony's Hospital in Denver, Colo.

In 1978, Gene moved his family to Palmer, employed as Manager for Rocky Mountain Helicopters. Gene has owned and operated numerous businesses in the area, including co-ownership with his wife and son, The Gallery in Palmer. Gene served American Legion of Alaska as Adjutant for 15 years. Gene loved his family, his Legion family and his many friends in the state of Alaska. He loved flying and gambling with his friends in Las Vegas, Nev.

Donations can be made to American Legion Post 15 Scholarship Fund.

Please join us in celebration of Gene's life at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022, at American Legion Post 15, 1550 South Mystic Circle in Palmer.