Russell Frantz Jr.

Russell Frantz Jr., 93, Winona Lake, formerly of Sidney, met his wife at the gates of heaven on Sunday, March 5, 2023. The son of Russell and Mabel Pauline (Glaze) Frantz Sr., Russell was born on Sept. 5, 1929, in Wanatah.

A year after graduating from Sidney High School in 1947, Russell married the love of his life, Doris M. Hill, on July 3, 1948. For 74 years the two showed their children what a strong Christian should be. During their time together, Russell provided for his family by working construction for many years. He later went to work for Redman Plumbing and Heating in Columbia City for 25 years before retiring in 2004. Russell was a loving man of God on whom others could rely. His faith and love for the Lord was ever constant. He and his wife were members of Packerton United Methodist Church in Packerton for more than 75 years.

During his time at Grace Village Retirement Community in Winona Lake, Russell was active in art club and Bible study while remaining involved in his church. He delighted in supporting his grandchildren in all of the activities they enjoyed and often said that every grandchild was his favorite one. When Russell found free time, he liked to cheer on Indiana University athletics and watch other sports.

The precious memory of Russell Frantz Jr. will be forever cherished by his sons, Stan (Lynn) Frantz, South Whitley, and Neal (Connie) Frantz, Fremont; daughters, Robin (Todd) Hughes, Pierceton, and Kelly (Mark) Lybarger, Warsaw; sisters, Sandra (Marvin) Metzger, North Manchester, and Patsy (Elmer) Matthews, Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Adam John Frantz, Alex (Jena) Frantz, Alyson Frantz, Travis (Chelsea) Frantz, Renee (Shawn) Cherian; Tanner (Montgomery) Hughes, Emily Hughes, Lance (Alison) Lybarger, and Lindsay Lybarger; and great-grandchild, Judah Cherian. Russell was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Doris Frantz; son, Brian Kim Frantz; brothers, Darrel Max Frantz and Lloyd Lewis Frantz; and sister, Madeline Mowan.

Family and friends may call from 4-7 p.m. Friday, March 10, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114W, North Manchester. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 11, with calling beginning at 9 a.m. at Packerton United Methodist Church, 7976 Packerton Road, Claypool, with Pastor Steve Newkirk officiating. Burial will be at Ulrey Memorial Cemetery, 2507 SR 14, Silver Lake.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Russell Frantz Jr., memorial contributions may be made to Packerton United Methodist Church, c/o Wayne Landis, P.O. Box 283, Mentone, IN 46539.

The family of Russell Frantz Jr. has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.