Kenneth M. Franz

Kenneth “Kenny” Franz, 56, of Redlands passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 12, 2015, at home surrounded by his loving family. A native of Fontana, California, Kenny was born on May 15, 1958 to Arnie and Dottie Franz; he was the fourth of five children. Growing up Kenny enjoyed playing sports, drawing, going to the beach, and spending time with his family and friends. In 1978, Kenny married his high school sweetheart, Sarah Viola; they were married for 36 years until her death in 2014. Also in 1978, Kenny began working at Stater Brother’s Market. He went on to work there for 35 years until his retirement in 2013. In 1982, his daughter, Amanda, was born and then a year, his daughter Anna, was born. Kenny lived for his girls, he loved and adored them beyond measure. Over the years, Kenny stayed active in the community by coaching baseball and softball, and by hosting an annual golf tournament. His coaching career spanned over 25 years and although he had many great memories during that time, his proudest moments were during the years he coached softball at his Alma mater, Fohi, from 1997-2002. He also enjoyed the annual golf tournament, Hack and Smack, that he put on for over 20 years to ensure that at least once a year him and his friends could gather for a good time. In 2014, shortly after retirement, Kenny was diagnosed with melanoma cancer. Being the sports fan he was, Stuart Scott's words became his mantra, "When you die, it does not mean that you lose to cancer. You beat cancer but how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live." Although, the outlook was bleak, Kenny remained positive and continued to live each day to the fullest. After a courageous year and a half long battle, Kenny lost the fight and succumbed to his disease. Kenny is survived by his daughters Amanda Franz and Anna (Jason) Cabral. In addition to his daughters, Kenny is survived by his mother, Dorothy Franz, his siblings Linda Browning (Brett), Steve Franz (Cathy), and Stacey Coccia (Ray), and his brother in law, Jon Rouse. He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews, extended family, and countless friends whom Kenny also considered family. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Sarah Franz, his father, Arnold Franz, and his sister, Laurie Rouse. He will always be remembered by family and friends as a loyal loving man. A Memorial Service to celebrate Kenny's life will be held at Redlands Church of Christ, 1000 Roosevelt Rd, Redlands, CA 92374 on Saturday, May 30, 2015 at 12 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Laurie Rouse Memorial Scholarship c/o Jon Rouse.

Kenneth M. Franz

May 15, 1958 - May 12, 2015