Ronald 'Bear' Franks

RONALD "BEAR" FRANKS

Marion

Ronald "Bear" Franks, 79, of Marion, passed away Wednesday, April 21, 2021.

Per his last wishes, there will be no funeral. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in the near future.

Ronald Gene Franks was born Feb. 9, 1942, in Iowa City to Thomas Jefferson and Frances Marie (McLain) Franks. He worked for the City of Cedar Rapids for 40 years. He also worked for Two Star Detective Agency for many years.

He married Judith Bates, and they had a son, Jeffrey Allen Franks. They later divorced. On Dec. 18, 1981, he married the love of his life, Melanie (Brewer) White Brubaker.

Ron loved spending time with his family and friends, hunting, fishing, camping, sports, and the Iowa Hawkeyes. He was a jokester, quick-witted and always happy. He could make anyone smile. Ron was proud of and loved his family very much.

Ron is survived by his wife, Melanie; sons, Jeffrey (Kelli) Franks of Cedar Rapids and Christopher (Jenifer) Franks of Palo; daughter, Sarah Lamb of Cedar Rapids; brother, Jerry (Gwen) Franks of Arizona; sister-in-law, Jane Franks; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, as well as several extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jack (Carol) Franks, Bob Franks and Richard Franks; and son-in-law, Eric Lamb.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Melanie Franks, c/o Papich-Kuba Funeral Service, 1228 Second St, SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401.