Dr. Ronald L. Franklin, DVM
Dr. Ronald Franklin, age 74, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, after a long-term battle with leukemia. He was surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Ronald Lynn Franklin was born Nov. 30, 1945, in Kansas City, MO, to Henry and Jean (Bethel) Franklin. He grew up and attended school in both California and Missouri, graduating from Penney High School in Hamilton in 1963. Ron attended the University of Missouri-Columbia, graduating in 1967 with a degree in Vocational Agriculture. On August 19 of the same year, he was united in marriage to Teresa Kathleen Murray. To this union, their two beautiful daughters were born, Marcella and Bethany.
After teaching at North Platte High School for a year, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1968, serving on active duty for six years and five years in the reserves. He completed Navy flight training and received his “wings of gold” in 1971. He flew the S-2 Tracker on the USS Wasp and USS Intrepid, completing 186 carrier landings. He also completed one tour in Vietnam. He flew the P-2 Neptune and the P-3 Orion in the Navy Reserves while attending the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine.
After completing his studies, Ron and his family moved to Sullivan to begin his career. Along with his partners, the practice grew to include several Veterinarians, a dedicated staff, and numerous clients. Throughout his career, he enjoyed serving the community’s large and small animal needs. Not only was he respected for his exceptional knowledge, but also his kindness, and easy-going nature. After 36 years of dedicated service, Ron left the practice to focus on his health, family, and other interests.
Ron had many passions in life and woodworking was at the top. He was a talented craftsman, building numerous pieces of furniture and other special treasures for his family and friends through the years. He enjoyed attending events involving his children and grandchildren, including many sporting events, concerts, and theatrical productions. He was also an avid follower of Mizzou athletics. Ron enjoyed traveling, and always looked forward to the annual vacation with the Kingston Navy. Most of all, his strong faith in the Lord was his foundation. He cherished reading and studying the Bible and was an integral member of Sullivan Christian Church since arriving in Sullivan. He served as Deacon, Elder, Trustee and Sunday School Teacher. Ron was also involved in the community as a longtime member and former President of the Sullivan Rotary Club. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and community.
He is survived by his loving wife, Teresa; two daughters, Marcella Franklin of St. Louis and Bethany Lohden (Michael) of Sullivan; three grandchildren, Kamryn, Charlie and Molly Lohden, all of Sullivan; his mother, Jean Franklin of Hamilton; a brother, Gary Franklin (Nancy) of Columbia; a sister, Sharon Nelson (Robert) of Faribault, MN; a brother-in-law, Denny Murray (Sue) of California, MD; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Franklin.
Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2020, at the Sullivan Christian Church with Pastor John Blackmore officiating. For those not able to attend the service in person, it will be live streamed via Facebook at www.facebook.com/sullivancconline beginning at 9:45 a.m. A private burial will take place at Cave Spring Cemetery with military honors.
A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at the Sullivan Christian Church. Due to the COVID-19 situation, guests will be expected to wear masks and maintain proper social distancing inside the church.
Condolences may be shared with Ron’s family online at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan.
