Zempel, Franklin R.

Franklin R. Zempel, Waupaca, Wisconsin, age 93, was ushered into the presence of His Savior on Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at Bethany Home in Waupaca, WI. He was born February 13, 1919 in the Town of Leon, Waushara Co., WI; son of Leo and Carrie (Larsen) Zempel. On June 15, 1941, Franklin married Marguerite Ribble, his wife of nearly 71 years, in the Town of Dayton, WI. He was a dairy farmer in the Town of Dayton for 32 years. After retiring from farming, Franklin worked a few years at Millcraft Housing and Waupaca Elevator. He was a “fix it” type of man and was always repairing something for himself, family or friends. Franklin enjoyed working in his workshop at home. He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Waupaca and served on the Board of Deacons for many years. He even used his own farm equipment to help with the groundwork to prepare for the building of the new church. He will be deeply missed by all of his loving family and friends. Franklin is survived by: his wife, Marguerite Zempel of Waupaca, WI; children: Keith (Marilyn) Zempel of Crossville, TN; Judy (Alan) Betz of Waupaca, WI; Ted (Barb) Zempel of Chisago City, MN; David (Ruth Ann) Zempel of Martinsville, IN; daughter-in-law, Nancy Zempel of Waupaca, WI; 16 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren, with the 27th grandchild being born on the day of his death; two sisters, Loretta Bonnell of Waupaca, WI and Esther Suhs of Waupaca, WI. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Carrie Zempel; a son, Jerry Zempel; a grandson, Scott Zempel, one brother, William Zempel; and one sister, Margaret Kinison. A Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 10:00 AM at the First Baptist Church of Waupaca, WI. Reverend Larry G. Gross officiated with a message by Pastor David Zempel. A visitation was held on Monday evening, May 28, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Holly Funeral Home in Waupaca and also at the church on Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 AM. Burial was at Crystal Lake Cemetery in the Town of Dayton on Tuesday. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements. Holly Funeral Home, 526 S. Main Street, Waupaca, www.hollyfuneralhome.com