James Franklin

James “Jim” Franklin, 91, of Staples, MN passed away Friday, October 13, 2017 at Lakewood Health Systems Hospital in Staples, MN. Services for Jim will be 1:00PM, Saturday, October 21, 2017 at Staples Assembly of God Church, with Ralph Gordon Lattie, Jr. officiating. Visitation for family and friends will start at 11:00AM and continue until the time of service.

James was born July 31, 1926 in Minneapolis, MN to Catherine Mass.
He attended the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and was known for his artistic attributes; sketches, paintings, poetry,and philosophy. He has paintings in galleries throughout USA. James was a former resident of St. John's ABBEY Benedictine Monastery,where he first met the love of his life, Dorothy. Dorothy (Freeman) and James married in 1977. Together they were owner operators of an apartment building, book store, ceramic shop, and they would buy and sell items at auctions and flea markets. James had a love for life, a drive of ambition and desire for good foods. He enjoyed going to the casino, reading Good Ole Days magazines and everyone who knew James, knew he would keep you guessing and on your toes!

James is survived by his step-son,Terrance (Kathy) Hallberg of Minneapolis; step-daughter, Renee Thiel of St. Cloud; step-son, James A. Scharver of Cambridge; several nieces, nephews; grandchildren; great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine Mass; his loving wife, Dorothy Franklin; brothers, William (Bill) Franklin, Paul Franklin, Joseph Franklin; step-children, Ruth E. Brooks, LaVonne D. Lattie, Charles D. Hallberg, Dale Denise. Services entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples, MN.