It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of William Franks beloved father, brother, uncle, friend & neighbour. Willie passed away peacefully at Pine Island Lodge in Maidstone, SK, with the words and love of his family tucked safely in his heart, on October 26, 2025. He was 97 years of age at the time of his death.

Willie will be forever missed by: his daughters, Jana (Will) and Mori (Corwin); sister, Dixie & “surrogate sister” Dorinda; as well as his nieces, nephews and many friends.

He was predeceased by: his brother, Rueben in childhood (1936); his brothers and life-long friends, Doug (2022) and Elmer (2025); and June (2025), mother to his daughters.

Willie was born to Dave & Bertha Franks near Stoughton, Saskatchewan. The family moved to the Maidstone area when Willie was just a boy and he remained there, finding work among the many farms before taking up and excelling at carpentry. As a home builder and master craftsman, Willie supported himself and eventually his own family. In later years, he would wile away many happy hours in his workshop, building beautiful wooden treasures.

He was a consummate outdoorsman enjoying trapping, hunting, fishing & photography over the years. He also enjoyed playing sports, especially baseball ~ as an all-star centre-fielder. He always enjoyed a good competition whatever the sport, even if he was only a spectator.

Whatever the pursuit, Willie made many friends and acquaintances along the way with his easily approachable manner and affable personality, that drew people to him. He always had a soft-spot for children and animals and his genuine, kind-hearted nature, quickly earned their friendship and trust. In life, he was a contented soul, who wore his heart on his sleeve - always ready to share a laugh or a tear with you.

As his daughters, we always knew Dad was very proud of his family ~ who and where he came from. Throughout our lives, he never failed to make us feel that we were the most important part of his.

To our Aunt and cousins, who join us in mourning his loss, Dad was humbled and honoured to share in your lives. He loved and admired you more that you know.

There will not be a formal funeral service. Rather, Willie’s daughters ask that you take a private moment to remember their Dad as they will, with his ready smile and kind twinkle is his eye.

        May the stars carry your sadness away.

        May the flowers fill your heart with beauty,

        May hope forever wipe away your tears.

        And, above all, may silence make you strong.

                                        Chief Dan George

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Saskatchewan SPCA in memory of Willie.