Darwin Benjamnin Franklin

Darwin Benjamin (Ben) Franklin, 95, went peacefully with our Lord on Sunday, April 20th, 2025, while at home and surrounded by his family.

Ben was born on May 22nd, 1929, at University Hospital, Minneapolis. He was the first of three children to Harry and Lydia (Hammerstrom) Franklin. He preceded his wife Eloise (Ellie) of 61 years, in death. Together they raised three children, Carrie  (Greg) Bourquin, Kyle (Amy), and Ronald (Val), from whom they were blessed with four granddaughters, and four great-grandchildren.

Ben served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was an active member of the Local VFW Post 1350.

Ben worked in the maintenance department for the local school district as a cabinetmaker. He loved hunting, fishing but, his passion was restoring clocks and family heirlooms.

A memorial service will be held at Saint Mark’s Lutheran Church, North Saint Paul, on Friday, May 16, 11:00am, with a gathering from 10:00am to 11:00am. After the ceremony there will be a luncheon at the church, followed by burial at 2:00PM Friday, May 16th 2025 at the Evergreen Memorial Gardens.