Gordon G. Franks

Gordon Franks, 87, of Ely, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 17, 2025, with his beloved wife, Audrey, by his side. Born on May 17, 1938, in Klamath Falls, Oregon, to William and Eleanor (Kidwell) Franks, Gordy led a life defined by service, hard work, and deep faith in God.

            At just 17, Gordy enlisted in the United States Navy. After completing boot camp, he was stationed aboard the USS Wasp (CVS-18), proudly serving as a Machinist Mate from 1955 to 1959. During his service, he participated in two world cruises—first from Boston, Massachusetts, and later after Wasp changed home port to San Diego, California.

Following his military service, Gordy joined his father in Wausau, Wisconsin, where he helped run a gas station and auto repair shop. It was there he met the love of his life, Audrey Larson. The two were married on October 7, 1960, in Des Moines, Iowa.

            A superb craftsman and tradesman, Gordy worked in auto body repair and in a foundry during the early 1960s when the minimum wage was just $1.00 an hour. In 1967, he moved his growing family to Ely, Minnesota, where he worked for Pecha Concrete before being hired by Reserve Mining and working on the railroad. Recognized for his strong work ethic and skill, Gordy was hand selected for welding school, earning certification as a Class A welder and millwright. He remained with Reserve Mining until the mine’s closure, after which he joined the Ely Recreation Department. There, he maintained equipment at Hidden Valley Ski Complex and the Ice Arena—earning local admiration for creating some of the best ice in the state as a Zamboni operator.

            Later, Gordy worked for Ferrell Gas, delivering propane across the region. No matter the hour, or the subzero temperatures, he always answered the call to help those in need, often saying little but doing much.

            Gordy’s life was anchored in his faith in Jesus Christ. Gordon was selected as Elder Emeritus by the congregation of the Ely Gospel Church for his sound leadership and knowledge of the scripture and unwavering ability to help guide people with their journey with Jesus. He is only one of four entrusted to this position in the Churches history.     He and Audrey shared their home on Thursdays for fellowship and bible study.

            Gordy was an avid fisherman and golfer, and he enjoyed snowmobiling and cruising around town with Audrey in their golf cart.

            Gordy was a cornerstone of the Ely community, a kind and selfless man who helped those in need.  Gordon was recognized as one of Ely’s unsung heroes.  Gordy embraced life with his infectious smile, all the way to the end.

            Gordy is survived by his devoted wife, Audrey Franks of Ely; children David (Arline) Franks of Ely, Donald Franks of Ohio, Lynn Franks of Ely, Dean (Karen) Franks of Duluth, and Dale Franks of Ely; 12 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and his cousin Dean (Terri) Franks of Palo Cedro, California.

            He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Eleanor Franks, and his brother, Paul Franks.

 The family would like to recognize Hospice-Doctor Peterson and Doctor Schwinghamer, RN Lori Dubbin, Hospice-RN Joanna Leno, Carefree RN Briita Noyes, and all the direct care Resident Assistance that took care of Gordy over the last several years.  Your steadfast devotion to the care and comfort of Gordon is greatly appreciated. 

            A celebration of Gordy’s life will be at 12:00 PM, Monday, September 1, 2025 in the Grand Ely Lodge in Ely, Minnesota.

 Arrangements are with Peterson Funeral Chapel of Coleraine.