John J. Franzen

John Franzen passed away unexpectedly and was called to Heaven on August 13, 2025. He was born on June 18, 1944, to Arthur and Dolores Franzen in Oshkosh.

John attended Catholic schools and graduated with a business degree from Milwaukee Area Technical College in 1966. John served in the Air Force Reserve for many years. He worked 46 years for RTS Packaging in various sales capacities, including Midwest Sales Manager and National Marketing Manager. The highlight of his career was receiving a patent for an invention in his industry. John married the love of his life, Patricia Carlson, in 1966. They lovingly raised two daughters, who brought them much happiness. In his later years, the greatest joy of his life was spending time with his five grandchildren, of whom he was immensely proud. 

John was a hard-working man whose honesty, integrity, and strong moral compass were known to all. He was principled and ethical, and his devout Catholic faith never wavered. 

John loved to laugh. He had an infectious smile, was quick with a joke, and was the best storyteller. His vast assortment of unique sayings and silly one-liners will be dearly missed. 

John loved living on Okauchee Lake; boating, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed all the projects involved with living on the lake, and could always be seen driving around on his golf cart. John looked forward to his weekly card game with lifelong and newly made friends. 

John is survived by his wife, Pat; their daughters, Kristin (Allan) Last and Laura Franzen (Robert Gustafson); precious grandchildren, Matthew, Alexander, Christopher, Ava and Nicklaus; his brother, Arthur (Agnes) Franzen; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dennis; and sister-in-law, Dawn. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, with a visitation from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service, at St. Charles Catholic Church in Hartland.

Memorials in John’s name may be made to the American Heart Association or St. Charles Catholic Church.