Paul Richard Franks

Paul Richard Franks died September 26, 2009 after losing a battle with cancer. During the last weeks of his life he was surrounded by family and as he took his final breath a peaceful smile appeared on his face. Paul had found a reason to smile.
Born August 23, 1937 in Tulsa to the parents of Conrad Andreas and Christine, Paul was such a beautiful baby that he was chosen as baby of the year and pictured on the front page of the Tulsa World. Nicknamed Fritz, he graduated from Tulsas Marquette High in 1955.
Paul was a real hero; he was a proud member of Tulsas finest, the Tulsa Fire Department from 1960 till he retired in 1980. On many occasions he risked his own life rescuing individuals trapped inside burning homes. He loved the outdoors, enjoyed fishing and gardening. He was a member of the Tulsa Sandblasters golf league.
Paul is survived by his two sisters, Mary Jo Siblay and Lorraine Finn; his loving and ever faithful wife of 34 years Debbie; sons, David and wife Debbie; Andy and his wife Shelley, their children, Coye Ann, A.J., Hailey and Sommer; and daughter Margie and her children Dillon and Lindsey. Paul also is a great-grandfather of two, who are yet to be named.
On September 6, 2009, at the age of 72, Paul became a child of God. His last three weeks were an amazing testimony to the power and grace of God. His entire life was transformed. After seventy years of fighting against the Lord Jesus, now he was excited and proud to call himself a Christian. He most assuredly is still smiling and so are his family and friends.
A Memorial Celebration will be held at Grace Bible Church, 7415 E. 15th St., Tulsa, OK on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Viewing held at Advantage Funeral Service, 9761 E. 31st St., Tulsa, OK on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.