Dennis Ray “Denny” Franklin, 79, of Summerville, SC, formerly of Winamac, passed away Thursday, October 29, 2026.
He was born on August 21, 1947 in Logansport, IN to the late Floyd Dallas “Butch” and Betty Jean (Boller) Franklin. He grew up in Reynolds, IN and attended North White High School in Monon, IN. In 1965, Denny married Nola Christine Toumine. She passed away in 1998.
In his younger years, Denny enjoyed riding horses, raising animals, and farming. He worked hard throughout his entire life. He excelled as a meat cutter at local grocery stores (Annis in Monon and Sanders in Winamac). Denny was a member of the Winamac VFW Auxiliary Post #1728 and Winamac Fraternal Order of Eagles #2580. He was an avid golfer and longtime member at Moss Creek Golf Course.
In 1987, Denny married Diane J. (Mudryk) Brooks. They made their home in Winamac and shared 35 years of marriage. Nearly ten years ago, Denny and Diane moved to Summerville. Denny enjoyed living in South Carolina and never missed a moment to share how great the weather was. He transferred his VFW membership to Summerville and enjoyed spending time with friends at the club.
He is survived by:
Dennis James “DJ” (wife: Carla) Franklin, Summerville, SC Son
Jade Franklin, Granddaughter
Emilee Franklin, Granddaughter
Autim (husband: Chance) Sparks, Granddaughter
Tyson Reed, Grandson
Timothy Reed, Grandson
Carolyn (husband: Michael) Wandrei, Monticello, IN Sister
Patricia Holeman, Monticello, IN Sister
Several Nieces and Nephew
Diane J. (Mudryk) Franklin, St. Charles, MO Former Spouse
Valerie (husband: Bob) Duffey, Cecil, OH Step Daughter
Melanie Ingold, St. Charles, MO Step Daughter
Brandon (wife: Stephanie) Brooks, Carmel, IN Step Son
Ryan Pardue Jr., Step Grandson
Keanna Pardue, Step Granddaughter
Connor Gordon, Step Grandson
Matthew Gordon, Step Grandson
Landen Brooks, Step Grandson
Olivia Brooks, Step Granddaughter
Mackenzie Johnson, Step Granddaughter
Jacob Johnson, Step Grandson
Andrew Link, Step Grandson
Macey Link, Step Granddaughter
Londyn Ingold, Step Granddaughter
Russell “Russ” Zalkawlski, Son-in-law
Preceded in death by:
Floyd Dallas “Butch” and Betty Jean (Boller) Franklin, Parents
Dena Rae Zalkawlski, Daughter
Dennis James “Baby DJ” Franklin, Jr., Infant Grandson
Gale Lee (wife: Karen) Franklin, Brother
Carl Holeman, Brother-in-law
Nola Christine (Toumine) Wayne, Former Spouse
A Celebration of a Life will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 4-6 PM EST at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.
In Lieu of Flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to Winamac VFW Auxiliary Post #1728.
Online Condolences may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.
