We used to call Frannie and Bob Craig the Dynamic duo when they worked for Ma Bell.They used to work on our phones. I have known Fran since back in the 50's or 60's so i considered him a long time friend. RIP dear friend. My condolences to his wife and family.

Anna Homan
May 19, 2021

Brad, and family.... My sincerest sympathy and our hearts reach to yours during this time. Please find peace in beautiful memories and family time.

Heidi J Dunfee
May 19, 2021

to Betty and Family,, I mourn and remember the good person and life of Frannie. His friendship with my father as a co-worker with Ma Bell is memorable and appreciated, and continued for years beyond both of their retirements. Frannie, with my dad Allan, and colleagues Ray Frett and Dick Angerer were the foursome who extended telephone wires throughout Cedar Rapids, especially the downtown. Their unsung actions helped our city be able to grow and keep pace with the times. There are many appreciations and stories about Frannie and family. One particular moment was when I was walking from Cedar Rapids to my Mt. Vernon home, I was about 5 miles into the 15 mile trek, and out of nowhere he saw me and give me a ride, going well out of his way. There's more to that story, but suffice it to say he came in as a guardian angel.

Robert Campagna
May 19, 2021

As Safety Commissioner I fondly remember Francis coming to Cedar Rapids City Council meetings. I spoke with him many times and did my best to seek information he was looking for or take into consideration issues he brought to the council's attention. His presence was always appreciated and his loss is the Lord's gain.

David Zahn
May 19, 2021

Franny was the man that I purchased 3 metal detectors from over the years. He was always so kind and willing to help me become familiar with all the features each machine provided, that I never considered buying any brand but a Whites, or thought about going to a different dealer. I remember that there was a collectors show at Hawkeye Downs several years ago. Franny had a table with a Whites detector that he was demonstrating. A competitor at the show had a display of all the coins, and misc. artifacts that he had found with his detector, wheras Franny had none of his finds on display. I knew Franny had probably just as many treasures to display, but showed none. I asked him why, and he said that he didn't want potential customers to think they would find so much. This was probably not a good sales approach, but showed the honest concern that he had for his fellow man. Whenever I talked to him, he always asked how my wife was doing. I hope Betty is doing well now. R.I.P. Francis

Dan Sullivan
May 19, 2021

My sincere sympathy to friends and family of Francis. Recalling our great times on various bus trips, our visits a local grocery stores and our wonderful fellowship at our monthly luncheons with Woolsey Tours. May fond memories help ease the pain of your loss in days to come.

Donna Dubishar Ruegsegger
May 20, 2021

My condolences to Betty and the rest of Franny's family. My parents, Gene and Darlene Woellert, were always very fond of the 2 of you. Mom had Franny help me a couple of times with phone issues. Franny, I'm sure Mom and Dad will catch up with you in Heaven! Betty, may God comfort you and your family while you mourn Franny's loss, and celebrate his life - a well lived one at that. God bless.

Rhonda Prouty
May 20, 2021

Jay, I'm sorry to hear of your dad's passing. My sympathies are with you and your family. -Jeryl

Jeryl Cox
May 20, 2021

I'll try not to repeat what so many will say about Fran King. Honest, hardworking, always ready to help you out, fun to be around. I'll just say when I met him in Dec. 11, 1976, he had a smile on his face. We saw each other often in the next few years and I don't ever remember him without that winning smile. I looked up my ledger sheet for Kings Treasures. He started with a basic button maker in Dec. 1976 but by 5/19/1977, he was buying button parts by the thousands, sometimes twice in a week. By 1979 he was "heavy into badge making". I still make a few "special" badges yet today and always think of Franny King. I guess I always will. Ray Buck from "The Button Works".

Raymond D Buck
May 20, 2021

Brad and Katie I am so sorry for your loss. You are both in my thoughts and prayers. Although I did not know your father/grandfather- in-law. He raised a very kind and sensitive son and his grandson picked an absolutely wonderful wife.

Donna Heinle
May 21, 2021

I was very sorry to hear about Franny's passing. I purchased a large amount of metal detecting equipment from him over the years - it was always a pleasure to do business with him.

Jeffrey Hill
May 21, 2021

Brad, Katie, and family, I am remembering you all in my prayers as you share memories and mourn together. May God give you a comfort that surpasses all understanding. "One short sleep past, we wake eternally And death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die." -John Donne

Melissa P Hake
May 21, 2021

My deepest sympathies go out to Betty,Brad,Jay and Denise. So sorry for your loss. Francis with b greatly missed by all who knew him.

Terry Core
May 22, 2021

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Francis. I used to spend many of my teenage and young adult years at the King's household. Many great times and great dinners there too. Have very good memories of Francis. Michael Orcutt

Michael Orcutt
May 31, 2021