Franklin was born in Royal, Arkansas to Frank B. McDowell and Lillie (Griffin) McDowell July 3, 1930. He passed June 23, 2024.
Franklin was raised on the family farm in Sunshine, Arkansas until moving to Oregon in 1946.He finished high school in Mill City, Oregon where he met his future wife, Maxine Scott. After serving in the United States Army in Korea, he and Maxine married.
He worked as a licensed journeyman mechanic in many shops in Oregon and Washington. Franklin also owned and operated several businesses over the years.
He was a man of many and varied enthusiasms leaving a legacy of building homes, boats, jeeps, hot rods, furniture and more. Franklin loved to travel. He loved his family and friends. He was never happier than when he was ankle deep in sawdust or elbow deep in grease.
Franklin leaves behind his wife of 71 years, Maxine; sons, Michael (and his wife Shelly), and Frank (and his wife Teresa); daughter, Laura Parrish (and husband Joseph). He is also survived by his five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
The family would like to thank the VA for healthcare during his active retirement and to Willamette Vital Health for their care during Franklin’s last months. Serving the family, North Santiam Funeral Service, Stayton.
