Russell H. Franzman, (Rusty) age 64 of Hebron, IN, was unexpectedly taken on March 2, 2021 after a short hospitalization due to COVID. Born February 1st, 1957 in Valparaiso to Russell F. and Phyllis D. (nee Minniear) Franzman. On November 4th, 1978 he married the love of his life, Sue M. (nee Lewandowski) who survivesContinue Reading
Tribute Video
Russell H. Franzman, (Rusty) age 64 of Hebron, IN, was unexpectedly taken on March 2, 2021 after a short hospitalization due to COVID.
Born February 1st, 1957 in Valparaiso to Russell F. and Phyllis D. (nee Minniear) Franzman.
On November 4th, 1978 he married the love of his life, Sue M. (nee Lewandowski) who survives along with his children Chad (Sarah) Franzman of Hebron and Kate (Dan) Avery of Meridian, Idaho. The apples of his eyes were his three grandchildren: Brockton Russell Franzman, Sloan and Sawyer Avery. Rusty is also survived by his mother, Phyllis (FooFoo) Franzman of Hebron; nieces, nephews, relatives and friends; brothers-in-law: Bob (Charlene) Lewandowski, and John Lewandowski and Steve McCallum as well as sister in law Nancy (Greg) Sheets. Especially dear to him were his Aunt Joyce Mattingly and special cousins Jeff & Diane Mattingly and family. Russ was preceded in death by his father Russell F. Franzman, who was awaiting his beloved son with his golf clubs and a tee time ready.
Russ was the second generation owner/operator of Russ’ Print Shop in Hebron; he was proud to continue the legacy of a family business, working alongside his son Chad. Rusty was a lifelong citizen of Boone Township, where he proudly served his community in many capacities. Elected Trustee of Boone Township in 2007, Russ was involved in numerous projects to help improve his hometown. His proudest accomplishment was the current renovation and moving of the Hebron Food Pantry and Township Offices. Rusty also served as President of the New Hebron High School Building Operations committee. He was a retired member of the Hebron Fire Department for more than 15 years, serving as Assistant Chief during his tenure. He additionally served as a current member of the Hebron Chamber of Commerce, where he held the role of President for many years.
Rusty enjoyed his weekends on Lake Schafer with Sue along with dear friends Dave & Amy Sokol and their daughters Ashley and Tara. One of Rusty’s other passions was the game of golf, he was a more than 40 year member of the Hebron Golf League, where he won multiple league championships. He loved all things pizza, ice cream and anything coconut, as well as the White Sox and practicing amateur meteorology. When Rusty was around, there was sure to be laughter and fun. His sense of humor and laugh will be missed by all that knew him. Rusty had a heart of gold, with his main mission in life being to help people and help his community to continue to thrive throughout the years. With a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye, you hardly ever heard the word “no” from his mouth.
Visitation will be held Monday, March 8, 2021, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Geisen Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 624 N. Main St., Hebron, IN.
A private funeral service will be held for close friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Hebron Volunteer Fire Department or the Hebron Schools Educational Foundation in Russ’ name.
Due to Covid-19, restrictions in the Funeral Home include: social distancing at 6 feet and face masks are required.
Visit Russell’s online guestbook at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com 219-663-2500.
Ron witkowski
left a message on March 12, 2021:
our deepest sympathies
Kathy (Sowards) Michael
left a message on March 11, 2021:
Such a wonderful family with big hearts and have always put the community first. Will be a huge loss to so many. So very sorry for your loss. Please know your all in my thoughts and prayers.
Taletha Coles
left a message on March 10, 2021:
I am very sorry for your lose and I hope you and your family celebrate his life and continue loving him in your memories.
Sincerely,
Taletha Coles
Fairfield Township Trustee, Tippecanoe County
Victoria Ellis
left a message on March 10, 2021:
I just want to say I am so sorry for your loss. This year has been a hard year for
families and friends. We haven't been able to spend a lot of time with our loved
ones making it especially hard to lose someone we love. Hold on to the memories
and the good times. Again my Condolences to the family.
Mark S. Franzman
left a message on March 9, 2021:
I always respected Rusty and looked up to him (generally and literally ) Rusty always had that good smile and the smile that let me know he was not amused at what I said or did ! Lol Rusty was a great natured Spirit of a man ,and I will always remember him as a great father, and husband to Sue and son of uncle Russell and aunt Phyllis ,grandfather to his grandchildren and friend to many, and for me, a great cousin ! Farewell and start your new Heavenly journey !! Amen
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Ken & Denise Shelhart
left a message on March 9, 2021:
So very sorry for your loss . What Great Guy
Elizabeth Cummins Robinson
left a message on March 8, 2021:
I know I didn’t see you often but I sure loved seeing you when we got the opportunity. I loved our Christmas get together at Great grandpa Otto’s. Prayers for you all.
Elizabeth Cummins Robinson
left a message on March 8, 2021:
I know I didn’t see you often but I sure loved seeing you when we got the opportunity. I loved our Christmas get together at Great grandpa Otto’s. Prayers for you all.
Chuck and Cindy Ransford
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Sue, Chad, Kate, Phyllis and family,
Such a beautiful Tribute Video.
Rusty was truly a good kind man. Your loss is shared by so many including your many friends in and around Hebron. Rusty had such a big impact in our community.
Deepest sympathy to you all.
May you find God's Peace in all your memories.
Chuck and Cindy Ransford
Jeremy, Jena, Landon and Carli Mitchell
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Our hearts are with your family at this time of loss and sadness, but we will continue to remember the fun and good memories. We love you all.
Janet(Smurdon) tsouklis
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Sue I am Sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. My condolences go out to you and your family ❤️
Janet (Smurdon) and Damon Tsouklis
Andrew Slager
left a message on March 8, 2021:
I am so sorry to hear of Rusty's passing. I have fond memories of him as one of the" little kids" in the neighborhood and his beautiful white dog, Duchess. I know he grew to be a fine man and like his father, Russell, a real pillar of his community. Of course, I want to add a special prayer for my old English teacher, Phyllis Franzman. I know this time must be very painful for you. Now all we can do now is cling to the wonderful memories and thank God for the time Rusty was with us.
Laura & Leo
left a message on March 8, 2021:
You will be deeply missed Rusty! Your smile, laughter and memories will live in our hearts forever.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May God surround you with comfort and strength during this difficult time and the days ahead. Much love and healing hugs, Laura & Leo
Jeff Nilsen
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Dear Sue and Family, I was sadden to hear of the sudden loss of Russ. My deepest sympathy to you and the family. He will be greatly missed. My prayers are with you at this time.
Tom and Karen Pavel
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Sue and family, we were completely shocked to hear about the passing of Russ. We will always remember our bowling league at he newly opened Hebron Lanes and filled cruise we took years ago. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers! Russ, you were a gem!!! RIP
Fred Martin
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Russ will be greatly missed. He loved his community and set a great example for others to follow.
Greg Nethery
left a message on March 7, 2021:
You were always there, ready to help or lend a hand. We could always stop by the shop and share a laugh, catch up on the families, or remember old memories. Sometimes, we’d make plans for a future dinner, or a day at the lake, or some other adventure, which for one reason or another, never quite happened. Now all we have are those old memories of playing basketball on the half court behind the garage, sledding and tobogganing at Forest Park golf course, movies at the old Valpo theater with your folks, playing pool on the round table in the basement, hanging out listening to music, talking with your Dad in the garage, playing baseball in the vacant lot behind the seed store, fishing and ice skating at Fisher’s Pond...and countless others all while growing up in a small town with our friends. I’ll miss the future memories that never happened, and your presence whenever I return to town. Farewell, my friend. You will not be forgotten.
Sharyn Harvey
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Remembering the good time preparing for UTA conference, eating at different restaurants. The fun and good times at conferences. You will be missed my friend. Hugs and prayers for Sue and your families.
Marv and Margo Tanner
left a message on March 7, 2021:
So very sorry to hear about Rusty's sudden passing. Our prayers are with your entire family and the town he was so proud to serve. Marv and Margo Tanner
Diane & Dan Fisher
left a message on March 7, 2021:
I remember Rusty as always having a smile or laughing. He enjoyed talking print shop with my husband Dan and watching the kids jump on the trampoline when they were little. He will be remembered as a joyful person.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Debby Sanders
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Dear Sue, Phyllis and kids, I was very saddened to hear of Rusty's passing. Although I haven't known him well in many years, I have heard so many wonderful things about him . It is terrible loss and I pray for healing and courage for all of you.
Joe Balczo
left a message on March 6, 2021:
May you Rest In Peace Rusty! You will be missed by many, forgotten by few! May God bless you and your family?
Merle Foresman
left a message on March 6, 2021:
We have only lived in Hebron nine years, but I considered Russ a good friend and a man that did many good things for the community. The Town of Hebron will miss him. My wife and I feel so sorry for the Franzman family. We are praying for them.
Dave and Joyce Walker
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Our hearts go out to Phyllis, Sue, Chad, Kate, the grandchildren, and the community of Hebron. We have lost a very special man.
Cody Stewart
left a message on March 6, 2021:
A man who was always committed to both his family and his community. I am so sorry for the devastating loss to your family.
Kimbra
left a message on March 6, 2021:
So sorry for you're loss?
Dave and Diane Lewandowski
left a message on March 6, 2021:
In memory of Rusty. Our condolences to his many loved ones, and friends.
Dave, Diane, Adriane and Paul Lewandowski
Donna (Taber)Lageveen
left a message on March 6, 2021:
My condolences to Sue & family. I like many will miss Rusty dearly. He was such a well known businessman & long time resident of Hebron. A friend to all & so many talents & services he gave to his community. Thanks my friend.
May the Lord comfort the family in the coming days.
Paul payne
left a message on March 6, 2021:
dear Phyllis and family, so sad to hear of your loss. I recall Rusty as a good student with great parents. ( I taught him to "take notes"). Your friend, Paul Payne
Jim and Lori Martin
left a message on March 6, 2021:
In memory of Russell H. Franzman, Jim and Lori Martin lit a candle
Sheila Hanewich
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Prayers for Rusty's family.
Sheila Hanewich
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Prayers for Rusty's family.
Sheila Hanewich
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Prayers for Rusty's family.
Susan Chermak
left a message on March 6, 2021:
The community mourns with you. Rusty will always be remembered as a happy and fun guy. And of course a great dad and grandpa. But mostly Sue’s other half. My deepest condolences to all of you
Leonard and Nancy Anglis
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Dear Sue, Chad, Kate, and Family,
Our hearts are broken with the news of Russ' passing, and we are praying His Angels around all of you during this most difficult time.
Russ was first our printer and then a trusted and good friend! He was so devoted to all of you and so kind to all of us!
Whether he was serving his family, his customers, or his community, Russ always did it with great joy and open arms!
In God's Word, the book of Matthew 25:23 states it perfectly: "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
Oh, if we could all be more like Russ, what a wonderful world this would be!
He was truly God's Best and he will be deeply missed!
We pray His comfort and peace over all of you now and always!
Jessica Link
left a message on March 5, 2021:
You will forever be in our hearts! Taken too soon, you will be greatly missed! So many memories through the years from family reunions in the church gym to different hotels in Indiana and Kentucky! You were ALWAYS kind and good to all of us family! Rest peacefully! We love you!!! - Jessica & Emma
kate wiltfang & family
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Our Sympathy. God Bless
Ken Caravana
left a message on March 5, 2021:
In memory of Russell H. Franzman, Ken Caravana lit a candle
John & Monica Murphy
left a message on March 5, 2021:
So sorry for your loss, and ours. John & Monica
Gayl L ELAM
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rusty was definitely a loving, caring man. You have another special angel looking over all of you.
Jack and Gayl
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Lauren (Luedtke) Bates
left a message on March 5, 2021:
I've been thinking about you all throughout the week and while I rejoice that Rusty is with our Savior I am terribly sad for your loss of a wonderful man! Hugs to you all!
Tim Palmer
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Sue, Chad and Katie, how tragic the loss of Rusty, his personality was so fun. I will always remember the times shared with my parents Neil and Barb and Grant and Carol. My thoughts and prayers to you all. Tim
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Ron witkowski
left a message on March 12, 2021:
our deepest sympathies
Kathy (Sowards) Michael
left a message on March 11, 2021:
Such a wonderful family with big hearts and have always put the community first. Will be a huge loss to so many. So very sorry for your loss. Please know your all in my thoughts and prayers.
Taletha Coles
left a message on March 10, 2021:
I am very sorry for your lose and I hope you and your family celebrate his life and continue loving him in your memories.
Sincerely,
Taletha Coles
Fairfield Township Trustee, Tippecanoe County
Victoria Ellis
left a message on March 10, 2021:
I just want to say I am so sorry for your loss. This year has been a hard year for
families and friends. We haven't been able to spend a lot of time with our loved
ones making it especially hard to lose someone we love. Hold on to the memories
and the good times. Again my Condolences to the family.
Mark S. Franzman
left a message on March 9, 2021:
I always respected Rusty and looked up to him (generally and literally ) Rusty always had that good smile and the smile that let me know he was not amused at what I said or did ! Lol Rusty was a great natured Spirit of a man ,and I will always remember him as a great father, and husband to Sue and son of uncle Russell and aunt Phyllis ,grandfather to his grandchildren and friend to many, and for me, a great cousin ! Farewell and start your new Heavenly journey !! Amen
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Ken & Denise Shelhart
left a message on March 9, 2021:
So very sorry for your loss . What Great Guy
Elizabeth Cummins Robinson
left a message on March 8, 2021:
I know I didn’t see you often but I sure loved seeing you when we got the opportunity. I loved our Christmas get together at Great grandpa Otto’s. Prayers for you all.
Elizabeth Cummins Robinson
left a message on March 8, 2021:
I know I didn’t see you often but I sure loved seeing you when we got the opportunity. I loved our Christmas get together at Great grandpa Otto’s. Prayers for you all.
Chuck and Cindy Ransford
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Sue, Chad, Kate, Phyllis and family,
Such a beautiful Tribute Video.
Rusty was truly a good kind man. Your loss is shared by so many including your many friends in and around Hebron. Rusty had such a big impact in our community.
Deepest sympathy to you all.
May you find God's Peace in all your memories.
Chuck and Cindy Ransford
Jeremy, Jena, Landon and Carli Mitchell
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Our hearts are with your family at this time of loss and sadness, but we will continue to remember the fun and good memories. We love you all.
Janet(Smurdon) tsouklis
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Sue I am Sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. My condolences go out to you and your family ❤️
Janet (Smurdon) and Damon Tsouklis
Andrew Slager
left a message on March 8, 2021:
I am so sorry to hear of Rusty's passing. I have fond memories of him as one of the" little kids" in the neighborhood and his beautiful white dog, Duchess. I know he grew to be a fine man and like his father, Russell, a real pillar of his community. Of course, I want to add a special prayer for my old English teacher, Phyllis Franzman. I know this time must be very painful for you. Now all we can do now is cling to the wonderful memories and thank God for the time Rusty was with us.
Laura & Leo
left a message on March 8, 2021:
You will be deeply missed Rusty! Your smile, laughter and memories will live in our hearts forever.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May God surround you with comfort and strength during this difficult time and the days ahead. Much love and healing hugs, Laura & Leo
Jeff Nilsen
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Dear Sue and Family, I was sadden to hear of the sudden loss of Russ. My deepest sympathy to you and the family. He will be greatly missed. My prayers are with you at this time.
Tom and Karen Pavel
left a message on March 8, 2021:
Sue and family, we were completely shocked to hear about the passing of Russ. We will always remember our bowling league at he newly opened Hebron Lanes and filled cruise we took years ago. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers! Russ, you were a gem!!! RIP
Fred Martin
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Russ will be greatly missed. He loved his community and set a great example for others to follow.
Greg Nethery
left a message on March 7, 2021:
You were always there, ready to help or lend a hand. We could always stop by the shop and share a laugh, catch up on the families, or remember old memories. Sometimes, we’d make plans for a future dinner, or a day at the lake, or some other adventure, which for one reason or another, never quite happened. Now all we have are those old memories of playing basketball on the half court behind the garage, sledding and tobogganing at Forest Park golf course, movies at the old Valpo theater with your folks, playing pool on the round table in the basement, hanging out listening to music, talking with your Dad in the garage, playing baseball in the vacant lot behind the seed store, fishing and ice skating at Fisher’s Pond...and countless others all while growing up in a small town with our friends. I’ll miss the future memories that never happened, and your presence whenever I return to town. Farewell, my friend. You will not be forgotten.
Sharyn Harvey
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Remembering the good time preparing for UTA conference, eating at different restaurants. The fun and good times at conferences. You will be missed my friend. Hugs and prayers for Sue and your families.
Marv and Margo Tanner
left a message on March 7, 2021:
So very sorry to hear about Rusty's sudden passing. Our prayers are with your entire family and the town he was so proud to serve. Marv and Margo Tanner
Diane & Dan Fisher
left a message on March 7, 2021:
I remember Rusty as always having a smile or laughing. He enjoyed talking print shop with my husband Dan and watching the kids jump on the trampoline when they were little. He will be remembered as a joyful person.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Debby Sanders
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Dear Sue, Phyllis and kids, I was very saddened to hear of Rusty's passing. Although I haven't known him well in many years, I have heard so many wonderful things about him . It is terrible loss and I pray for healing and courage for all of you.
Joe Balczo
left a message on March 6, 2021:
May you Rest In Peace Rusty! You will be missed by many, forgotten by few! May God bless you and your family?
Merle Foresman
left a message on March 6, 2021:
We have only lived in Hebron nine years, but I considered Russ a good friend and a man that did many good things for the community. The Town of Hebron will miss him. My wife and I feel so sorry for the Franzman family. We are praying for them.
Dave and Joyce Walker
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Our hearts go out to Phyllis, Sue, Chad, Kate, the grandchildren, and the community of Hebron. We have lost a very special man.
Cody Stewart
left a message on March 6, 2021:
A man who was always committed to both his family and his community. I am so sorry for the devastating loss to your family.
Kimbra
left a message on March 6, 2021:
So sorry for you're loss?
Dave and Diane Lewandowski
left a message on March 6, 2021:
In memory of Rusty. Our condolences to his many loved ones, and friends.
Dave, Diane, Adriane and Paul Lewandowski
Donna (Taber)Lageveen
left a message on March 6, 2021:
My condolences to Sue & family. I like many will miss Rusty dearly. He was such a well known businessman & long time resident of Hebron. A friend to all & so many talents & services he gave to his community. Thanks my friend.
May the Lord comfort the family in the coming days.
Paul payne
left a message on March 6, 2021:
dear Phyllis and family, so sad to hear of your loss. I recall Rusty as a good student with great parents. ( I taught him to "take notes"). Your friend, Paul Payne
Jim and Lori Martin
left a message on March 6, 2021:
In memory of Russell H. Franzman, Jim and Lori Martin lit a candle
Sheila Hanewich
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Prayers for Rusty's family.
Sheila Hanewich
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Prayers for Rusty's family.
Sheila Hanewich
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Prayers for Rusty's family.
Susan Chermak
left a message on March 6, 2021:
The community mourns with you. Rusty will always be remembered as a happy and fun guy. And of course a great dad and grandpa. But mostly Sue’s other half. My deepest condolences to all of you
Leonard and Nancy Anglis
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Dear Sue, Chad, Kate, and Family,
Our hearts are broken with the news of Russ' passing, and we are praying His Angels around all of you during this most difficult time.
Russ was first our printer and then a trusted and good friend! He was so devoted to all of you and so kind to all of us!
Whether he was serving his family, his customers, or his community, Russ always did it with great joy and open arms!
In God's Word, the book of Matthew 25:23 states it perfectly: "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
Oh, if we could all be more like Russ, what a wonderful world this would be!
He was truly God's Best and he will be deeply missed!
We pray His comfort and peace over all of you now and always!
Jessica Link
left a message on March 5, 2021:
You will forever be in our hearts! Taken too soon, you will be greatly missed! So many memories through the years from family reunions in the church gym to different hotels in Indiana and Kentucky! You were ALWAYS kind and good to all of us family! Rest peacefully! We love you!!! - Jessica & Emma
kate wiltfang & family
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Our Sympathy. God Bless
Ken Caravana
left a message on March 5, 2021:
In memory of Russell H. Franzman, Ken Caravana lit a candle
John & Monica Murphy
left a message on March 5, 2021:
So sorry for your loss, and ours. John & Monica
Gayl L ELAM
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rusty was definitely a loving, caring man. You have another special angel looking over all of you.
Jack and Gayl
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Lauren (Luedtke) Bates
left a message on March 5, 2021:
I've been thinking about you all throughout the week and while I rejoice that Rusty is with our Savior I am terribly sad for your loss of a wonderful man! Hugs to you all!
Tim Palmer
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Sue, Chad and Katie, how tragic the loss of Rusty, his personality was so fun. I will always remember the times shared with my parents Neil and Barb and Grant and Carol. My thoughts and prayers to you all. Tim
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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