Dennis R. Franklin
Dennis Ray “Denny” Franklin, 79, of Summerville, South Carolina, formerly of Winamac, passed away Thursday, Oct. 29. He was born on Aug. 21, 1947 in Logansport, to the late Floyd Dallas “Butch” and Betty Jean (Boller) Franklin. He grew up in Reynolds and attended North White High School in Monon. 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 son Dennis James “DJ” [wife: Carla] Franklin, Summerville, South Carolina; granddaughters: Jade Franklin, Emilee Franklin and Autim [husband: Chance] Sparks; grandsons: Tyson Reed and Timothy Reed; sisters: Carolyn [husband: Michael] Wandrei, Monticello and Patricia Holeman, Monticello; several nieces and nephews; former spouse Diane J. (Mudryk) Franklin, St. Charles, Missouri; step-daughter Valerie [husband: Bob] Duffey, Cecil, Ohio and Melanie Ingold, St. Charles, Missouri; step-son Brandon [wife: Stephanie] Brooks, Carmel; step-grandsons: Ryan Pardue Jr., Connor Gordon, Matthew Gordon, Landen Brooks, Jacob Johnson and Andrew Link; step-granddaughters: Keanna Pardue, Olivia Brooks, Mackenzie Johnson, Macey Link and Londyn Ingold; and son-in-law: Russell “Russ” Zalkawlski.
Preceded in death by parents: Floyd Dallas “Butch” and Betty Jean (Boller) Franklin; daughter Dena Rae Zalkawlski; infant grandson Dennis James “Baby DJ” Franklin, Jr.; brother Gale Lee [wife: Karen] Franklin; brother-in-law Carl Holeman; and former spouse Nola Christine (Toumine) Wayne.
A celebration of a life will be held on Thursday, Nov. 12, from 4-6 p.m., at Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
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.
(Pulaski County Journal — Nov. 11, 2026)