Bruce William Franz

Bruce Franz lost his personality, sense of self, and presence of mind to FTD Dementia over the last four years. His constant prayer was to be released from these circumstances. His prayer was answered with his passing on September 6th, 2025.

Bruce was the third son born to Howard and Sue (nee Tolliver) Franz in Middletown OH on November 22, 1948. He graduated from Middletown High School where he collaborated on the yearbook, and in later years with reunion plans. Bruce worked his way through college, graduating from Miami University with a BA degree majoring in English. For 23 years he worked as a civilian employee at Wright Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton OH.

Bruce was proud to be a member of Mensa and Intertel. He actually met his wife through his personal ad in a Mensa bulletin! Bruce married Mary Keilen in Michigan on May 31, 1980. Together they square danced, where he assumed leadership roles including writing a newsletter. Bruce loved his family, especially the years performing together as The Franz Family Fiddlers. He was a fantastic emcee, and enjoyed creating newsletters about their performance travels and life experiences.

In his retirement, Bruce began offering his English skills as a tutor, finding a specific niche: English as a Second Language. He assisted with ESL classes in the Dayton area, later creating his own class in the Cleveland area. Bruce even published a vocabulary book for ESL students!

Bruce is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Mary K., children Laurel, Brian (Meghan), and Kylen (Logan), two grandchildren, his brothers Lowell and Roger, and their children and grandchildren.

A private burial service will be held in Columbus. A memorial celebration of Bruce's life will be held on November 22, 2025 at Outville Presbyterian Church in Outville OH.

In honor of Bruce, please consider donating to Community Refugee and Immigration Services or Dementia Society of America. https://crisohio.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate-to-cris    https://dementiasociety.charityproud.org/donate