KENNETH JOHN FRANKNECHT

July 10, 1932 - June 3, 2022

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather and friend to many peacefully passed away at home surrounded by family on Friday, June 3rd. Born in Chicago, IL to Robert and Elaine Franknecht in 1932, he attended Proviso High School, Monmouth College in Monmouth, IL and graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean

War he married his wife of 69 years Mary Ellen. After returning, he went on to a long and successful career with Shell Oil Company making many friends in Chicago, New York and Palo Alto, Ca before moving to Houston in 1970. After retiring in 1984, Ken and Mary Ellen divided their time between Houston and the enchanted mountains of Eagle Nest, NM.

Besides raising their three children – Bob, Karen and John – he became involved in Junior Achievement, Dad’s Club (swimming), Memorial West Community Club (swimming and tennis), as well as bridge with neighbors both here in Houston and Eagle Nest.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen; his 3 children and their spouses, Bob (Joanne), Karen and John (Pam); his 3 grandchildren and their spouses, Sheryl (Brian), Daniel (Lisa) and Robyn (Connor); and his 3 (soon to be 4) great-grandchildren, Taylor, Payton and Austin.

He will be missed by all of his family and friends as he “Knew no strangers” both in Houston and Eagle Nest. Always proclaiming that he lived a great life, his motto was “Keep Memories of the Past with Cheers to the Future”.

A private family service is planned.