My husband Donald L. Franklin was a very loving‚ caring‚ and devoted man. He loved life more than anyone could imagine. One of his favorite songs was What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong. Every time he heard this song he would get goose bumps up and down his arms. He was a wonderful stepfather to Aaron and he loved his five children Shane‚ Tara‚ Connor‚ Devon‚ and Kerry more than they will ever know.

He loved having a good time‚ enjoying life‚ and making people laugh. His life’s dream was to go caribou hunting in Canada. He fulfilled this dream four months before he was taken from me.

He had a lot of good friends and family that loved him. There was not a day that went by that he did not tell me how much he loved and cared for me. We talked on the phone at least 10 times a day and it was a joke at the firehouse (Engine 92‚ Ladder 44‚ Battalion 17) every time the outside line would ring‚ they would all start yelling..Don‚ the Franklin line is ringing. His firehouse truly loved him and will forever miss him.

I was so happy the day we became one. He was not only my husband; he was my soul mate and my best friend. I know in my heart that God is taking good care of him. Donny‚ thank you for all the wonderful memories‚ always remember you are the best part of my life‚ my one true hero‚ and I am only one breath away from you. Rest in peace‚ my angel. I love you.

Forever‚ Linda P.S. Your wife for life.

– Linda Franklin