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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

David Franson

David Franson, age 72, passed away on April 3, 2019.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Gale Franson. Dave and Gale were married for 38 years before Gale passed away. Their story was one of the greatest love stories ever told and his family is rejoicing that they are together again for eternity.

Dave was a decorated military veteran, volunteering for two tours in Vietnam. He was awarded the Silver Star, 2 Bronze stars – one for valor and one for service and a purple heart.

Dave’s life was one of grand adventures, endless love, and wonderous joy. He was a hero to countless people and when word of his illness spread, tributes from around the world poured in. Dave was an active volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware, even receiving the “Big Shoes to Fill” award for serving over 800 volunteer hours. The Ronald McDonald house volunteers and staff were Dave’s family after his wife passed away and he spent countless hours helping other families learn how to cope with sadness, loss, and the illness of a child.

Dave’s life was so big and vast, it is almost impossible to capture it in writing. He was an amazing man, a mentor, hero, and friend to every person that met him. No one ever walked away from Dave without being touched on a deep level by his infectious joy, big booming laughter, and giving spirit. The world has indeed lost a true treasure.

A visitation will be held on Saturday April 27, 2019 from 12:00-12:30PM at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, followed by a memorial service beginning at 12:30PM. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware. For more information regarding Memorial or Tribute gifts, please contact the Development Office at 302-428-5319.

 

Funeral Services

Saturday April 27, 2019

Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington Delaware

Visitation from 12:00 to 12:30

Service at 12:30

Burial will be private

 

Condolences

    Lou Franson lit a candle
    04/05/2019 07:59 pm
    Alex Gleason lit a candle and writes,
    I never had the chance to meet Dave, but I know his daughter Ashley and it’s obvious where she got her amazing personality and spirit from. My heart is saddened and hurting for Ashley and her family. I know he’s in a better place now watching down on everyone he’s ever loved and cared for.
    04/05/2019 08:07 pm
    Joan Ashley lit a candle and writes,
    Ashley, Christopher and all of Dave’s loved ones, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts, prayers and love for you. Auntie Joanie
    04/05/2019 08:41 pm
    Dorina Horsey writes,
    For Dave's family: I volunteered at Ronald McDonald House with Dave and got to know him the past few years. Dave had a way of making everyone he met feel at ease, and he always had a smile or kind word for the families staying at the house. I will never forget him. I hope that you can find peace in the coming days knowing that he truly made a difference in so many people's lives. God bless you.
    04/05/2019 10:15 pm
    Gray Dennis writes,
    Karen and I loved Dave. We had many good times together in high school; parties, gatherings, etc. our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Love, Dennis and Karen Gray
    04/06/2019 12:32 pm
    Lori writes,
    I didn't know Dave, but I know his amazing daughter Ashley. I've always admired her wise, beautiful, loving and compassionate soul and now I know where she got it from. My thoughts are with Dave's family.
    04/07/2019 12:57 pm
    Bill Barnes lit a candle and writes,
    Dave and I were friends from elementary school till his passing. Good by my friend. Till we meet again. Bill
    04/08/2019 12:00 pm
    Tara Schiano writes,
    My son and I Nicholas, volunteered with Dave at the Ronald McDonald House. He was a tireless volunteer and also available to pop in his car and head over when they were short staffed. His enthusiasm with everyone he came into contact with at the house was unmatched! He had a sense of humor and yes and an infectious "booming" laugh. He took an interest in EVERYONE he came into contact with at the house and it was appreciated by all. I immensely enjoyed hearing about his time in the service, even though I had to press him about it. That's what service to country is, Dave Franson. He was a quiet hero and that is a true hero. He always remembered to ask about family and took an avid interest in my youngest son who attends military school. He will be sorely missed! Thank you for your service. Rest in peace.
    04/08/2019 12:45 pm
    Chris Ocken Gigliotti writes,
    Dave was a very special person in my life during high school. I always knew he would do great things in his life, especially while serving our country. He had such a big heart...rest in peace Dave.
    04/08/2019 03:35 pm
    Gayle Hudgins Williams lit a candle and writes,
    My thoughts and prayers are with Chris and Ashley on the death of their Dad. I was friends first with their mother, Gale. I was in their wedding. Wonderful couple.
    04/09/2019 08:39 pm
    Jessica Faucher lit a candle and writes,
    I will miss you, Dave. It was a true privilege volunteering with you at the Ronald McDonald House. You brought so much joy to so many lives. Your memory will live on in our House each and every shift. You will forever be loved and missed. The time and commitment you dedicated in helping my father behind the scenes each “Share-A-Night” for the House will never be forgotten. You were a true light for this House, and it will never dim. The Ronald McDonald House family will always hold you tightly in our hearts. You truly made our special House, a beautiful Home.
    04/10/2019 07:20 pm
    Kathy Urzi lit a candle and writes,
    May my younger sweet brother Rest In Peace. I love you always!!
    04/10/2019 10:18 pm
    George Kelzer lit a candle and writes,
    My condolences and sympathy to David's family. May his memory always live on with those close and dear to him. Thank you for his service to our country. Even though I only remember meeting David once in the early 60's in Waconia at our aunt and cousin's home that visit stays with me to this day. Sincerely, George
    04/15/2019 05:58 pm
    David Birdsell lit a candle and writes,
    Rest In Peace my friend. Thanks for the memories we shared.
    04/22/2019 05:40 pm
    William and Sunny keesee writes,
    Thank you for showing us the joy of life, good memories. Peace be with you.
    04/25/2019 07:00 am
    David Franson writes,
    I have the same name as you , God Bless and hope to meet you in Heaven .
    05/31/2019 03:59 pm
    John Neves lit a candle and writes,
    Just learned of Dave’s passing. I know he will be missed. Dave and I shared an apartment in Anniston Alabama when he was stationed at Fort Mclellan and I was stationed at Anniston Army Depot. Many memories. I also knew Gale and I was at their wedding. Dave never did anything 100 percent, it was always 150 percent. We lost contact when he was sent back to Vietnam and I got out of the service. I will never forget him.
    09/12/2020 03:12 pm

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