Service: Private family services will be held.
Melvin Franka, age 87, died Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at Good Samaritan Society Canton. Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers, condolences may be sent to Anderson Funeral Home P.O. Box 36 Canton, SD 57013.
Melvin was born on February 3, 1934 in Edam, Saskatchewan Canada to John and Bertha (Bick) Franka. He moved with his family to Garretson, SD in 1938. He graduated from Garretson High School in 1952. He later earned an English Degree from Springfield College. He served his country in the Navy Reserves from 1952-1954 and the US Army from 1954 until his honorable discharge in 1956. He married Patricia Williams on April 4, 1967.
Through the years, Melvin worked as a truck driver, in construction, as a handyman, a cabinet builder, and most recently as a courtesy driver for Luxury Auto Mall. Melvin enjoyed reading, lawn care, woodworking, watching the History channel, shopping on Amazon, and spending time with his family.
Melvin is survived by his children, Mary Jo (Alan Jr.) Fossum, Cindy Ellefson (Randy), and Colleen Elliott; sister, Alice Leslie; 7 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and 5 great-great grandchildren; along with numerous extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; granddaughter, Meghan; great-granddaughter, Olivia; and 3 brothers.
I have so many memories of Mel from years ago when I was young, a teenager and later when visiting at Pat and Mel’s homes in Garretson and Lennox. Mel and I used to tease each other with nicknames …he was “Hairy” to me and I was “Slim”. Mel was such a soft spoken and kind person who loved his family immensely. My heart goes out to you all. Much love and prayers for each of you.
One of the finest people I’ve ever known. You will be missed.
Sorry Mel was a great man
Sorry for your loss, keeping everyone in my thoughts.
Our condolences to the Franka family .