James Steven “Steve” Franklin
July 5th, 1952 - April 10th, 2023
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Steve's Obituary
James Steven "Steve" Franklin, 70, of Watervliet, passed away on April 10, 2023, at South Haven Nursing & Rehab Center where he had been recovering from a stroke that occurred in September 2022. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will take place at a later date. Those wishing to help the family with end-of-life expenses may do so at the following, https://gofund.me/f8b73bb0. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Steve’s name may do so to the City of Watervliet MI, Parks and Recreation Department, specifically for Hays Park in Watervliet MI. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Steve, the youngest of three children, was born on July 5, 1952 in Tennessee, to David & Willadean (Cobb) Franklin. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School and continued his education by earning a bachelor’s degree at a local college. In 1986, Steve married the love of his life, Lisa Smart, at 12 Corners Church in Benton Harbor. In 1983 Steve began his career as a firefighter. For 25 years, he worked as a Firefighter for the City of Benton Harbor Fire Department, retiring at the age of 55. During the Benton Harbor Riots of 2003, Steve proudly helped to hold down the City Hall. With “God, Guns, and Glory” being a way of life, Steve was the most dangerous man wearing moccasins you’d ever see. He was also a proud Detroit’s fan, making sure he was always cheering them on come Thanksgiving Day. Above all, Steve was a loving husband, father, and grandfather first.
Steve is survived by his son, Eric (Cecily) Franklin of Watervliet; grandchildren, Logan, Jonathan, Bruce, Eddie and Veronica; and his oldest sibling, Brenda Swisher. He was preceded in death by his parents, David & Willadean; loving wife of 36 years, Lisa; and brother, Joseph Franklin.
Steve, the youngest of three children, was born on July 5, 1952 in Tennessee, to David & Willadean (Cobb) Franklin. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School and continued his education by earning a bachelor’s degree at a local college. In 1986, Steve married the love of his life, Lisa Smart, at 12 Corners Church in Benton Harbor. In 1983 Steve began his career as a firefighter. For 25 years, he worked as a Firefighter for the City of Benton Harbor Fire Department, retiring at the age of 55. During the Benton Harbor Riots of 2003, Steve proudly helped to hold down the City Hall. With “God, Guns, and Glory” being a way of life, Steve was the most dangerous man wearing moccasins you’d ever see. He was also a proud Detroit’s fan, making sure he was always cheering them on come Thanksgiving Day. Above all, Steve was a loving husband, father, and grandfather first.
Steve is survived by his son, Eric (Cecily) Franklin of Watervliet; grandchildren, Logan, Jonathan, Bruce, Eddie and Veronica; and his oldest sibling, Brenda Swisher. He was preceded in death by his parents, David & Willadean; loving wife of 36 years, Lisa; and brother, Joseph Franklin.
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