Walter Franz

Walter James Franz passed away on December 29, 2018 in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Napavine, WA on May 28, 1931. He grew up in Winlock on the family farm. He graduated from Winlock High School in June 1949. He went into the Army and served during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged on January 8, 1954 with the rank of D.I. Sargent. After the Army, Walt attended the University of Washington and studied Engineering and worked for Boeing designing the 707. In 1958 he went to work for Washington State building Interstate 5. In 1959, he went to work for the Bureau of Public Roads (now known as the Federal Highway Administration) until his retirement in 1989. He married the love of his life, Sandra Warbington, on March 30, 1963. They raised their family in Winlock. Walt instilled the love and importance of family. He modeled generosity, selflessness, love, patience and the love of building and trees. He also shared his love of the Lord. He was confirmed on May 25, 1947 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Walt was very involved in the church and volunteered for many years. He loved designing buildings, farming, cows, gardening, trees, hunting and his family. Walt shared his love of building with his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Sandra Franz, son Bill Franz (Debbie), son Walter Franz, daughter Karen Howsden (Thomas) and son John, 10 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his mother Emilie, father William, sisters Evelyn & Joanne, brother, William. The funeral service will be held at Peace Lutheran Church, 2071 Bishop Rd. Chehalis, on January 7, 2018 at 11:00 am with a luncheon to follow. The interment will be at the Winlock Cemetery at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Peace Lutheran Church or the Alzheimer’s Association.

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