Donald C. Franzen

Age 71 of Wilmington, Illinois died Friday, November 3, 2023 at his home in Shadow Lakes.

Born January 4, 1952 in Evergreen Park, Illinois, Donald was a son of Edward Paul and LaVerne Claire (Hutchinson) Franzen. He was raised in Chicago and graduated from Morgan Park High School with the Class of 1970. Don made his career with General Motors where he gained employment in 1976 and went on to retire from in 2006.

An avid hunter and outdoorsman, Don was a member of Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Delta Ducks and Salmon Unlimited. A ‘Jack of all trades’, Don had many skills and will most be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit.

Survivors include two sons, Christopher Franzen of Wilmington and Dennis (Michelle) Franzen of Ashland City, Tennessee; five grandchildren: Brianna, Cody, Ashlee, Dylan and Emily; and four sisters: Linda (Dick) Kelley of Maple Park, Illinois, Lorie (Tom) Swidergal of Oak Forest, Illinois, LuAnn (Patrick) Lauf of St. Charles, Illinois and Lisa (Matthew) Irving of Crown Point, Indiana, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Paul and a niece, Jennifer Kirwan.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington from 6:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Don’s memorial page.

Cremation and memorial services have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)