“Bill” was born on August 18, 1934, at San Rafael Ranch, Arizona. Bill's journey through life was marked by dedication to God, his family, his country, and his community.
Bill served in the United States Air Force as a Staff Sergeant in the Strategic Air Command from 1952 to 1956 and received an honorable discharge. His knack for problem solving and analytical mind led him to work for General Dynamics as a Systems Analyst for 34 years.
Bill's interests and hobbies were as diverse as they were passionate. From his love for woodworking to his enthusiasm for outdoor activities, he embraced the beauty of creation and the joy of craftsmanship. His mind never rested, always seeking out the next puzzle to solve or the next project to undertake, embodying the well-known quote by Albert Einstein, “The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”
Since moving to Murrieta in 1985, Bill became an integral part of the community, sharing his wisdom and lending a helping hand wherever needed. Described as wise beyond his years, Bill's approach to life's challenges was balanced by his deep understanding and compassionate heart. He was a devout member of St. Martha Catholic Church, and proud and active member of the Knights of Columbus for 62 years.
He is survived by a loving family that includes his wife of 67 years: Frances Franklin and his children, Michael Paul Franklin, Edward William Franklin; Margaret "Margie" Theresa Casey, and Daniel Thomas Franklin. His legacy further lives on by his 15 grandchildren, Jessica, Marcus, Stephanie, Rebecca, Gabriel, David, Reuben, Christopher, Dominic, Kayla, Jacqueline, Kiara, Victor, Santiago, Mariella. Beloved by his cherished 12 great-grandchildren Ava, Elaina, Claire, Parker, Greyson, Olivia, Sophia, Elias, Presley, Emma, Wyatt, and Noah.
Bill was preceded in death by his brother Robert Franklin, his beloved mother Aurelia Bustamante, and his father Ward William Franklin Sr., each of whom played a significant role in shaping the man he became.
Note: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring and serving this military veteran, and all PGR members are welcome to attend.
TIMETABLE FOR WEDNESDAY, 16 OCTOBER 2024:0915: Stage at Evans-Brown Mortuary, 126 E. Graham Ave, Lake Elsinore, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/JnT3Winyy6g8CWie60930: Mission briefing.
0955: Flag line as hero is moved from funeral home to coach.
1000: KSU to St. Martha Catholic Church, 37200 Whitewood Road, Murrieta, CA.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Sun3SoBYF5z8BGep71030: Flag line as hero is moved from coach to chapel.
1100: Chapel service.
Stephen “Opie” Zeeb
MSgt., USAF (Ret)
SoCal PGR Ride Captain
xyzeeb@gmail.com
951.587.7560You do not have to be a veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this will be your first mission go to the initial staging area and you will be briefed there by the Ride Captain (RC). Dress for motorcycle riding or dress casually if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and respect for our Heroes. No talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum.
