BOMBER MEMORIAL

RUDY WALTER FRANZ ~ Class of 1966
September 18, 1947 - May 10, 2010

Rudy Franz - 9th ~ Rudy Franz - Senior

Rudy Franz - Recent

Rudy, age 62, of Richland died May 10, 2010 at his home. He was born September 18, 1947 in Richland to Russell Eugene "Russ" and Irene Mae Camp Franz.

Rudy attended Jefferson Elementary School, Chief Jo Junior High School and graduated with the Class of 1966 from Richland's Columbia High School.

After attending CBC and receiving his AAS in Machine Technology, Rudy served in the Army from December 1968 to September 1970. He trained as a vehicle mechanic and was stationed in Germany. After his service in the Army he worked at a Texaco station eventually purchasing the station in Richland. He also worked as a Patrolman at Hanford. He logged many hours as a Richland Reserve Police Officer, earning commendations for his time and efforts. He worked as a Corrections Officer for the City of Richland Police Department and earned commendations for his work. He remained there until the jail was closed in 1985. Rudy loved working with plants and enjoyed his last job as a nurseryman. He had quite a following at Wood's Nursery and was missed by many of his customers.

Rudy enjoyed fishing of all kinds and could always find an excuse to "go" fishing with his pals. Fly tying was another pastime. He treasured his grandfather's and father's fishing gear.

He loved to cook and share his creations with neighbors and family. Rudy was known for his "hot" peppers and jerky.

Rudy was preceded in death by his mother, Irene, on November 6, 1970; and by his father,
Russ, on May 3, 2003.

He is survived by his brother, Gary (Pat) Franz ('61) and family; his sister, Gail Franz ('64) Poynor (John) and family; his son, Dustin (Kara) Franz and their children: Allie Franz, Cody Olsen and Cassie McElfish; and his son, Jason (Tresa) Franz and their son, Drake. He leaves many nieces, nephews and their children.

A memorial gathering was held at the Richland Columbia Point Marina Park at the center gazebo at 1pm on Sunday, May 23, 2010.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to a donation account for the benefit of the Rudy Franz family at any Gesa Credit Union branch or mailed to Gesa; P.O. Box 500; Richland, WA 99352.

Published in the Tri-City Herald on May 14 and May 20, 2010.

Bomber Memorial put together by Shirley COLLINGS Haskins ('66).