Obituaries

Louise T. Franze, 93

May 08, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Louise T. Franze, a cherished mother, devoted educator, and beloved friend, who left this world on May 8, 2025. She was the loving wife of John P. Franze for 33 years until his passing in 1986.

Born and raised in Minnesota to Walter and Eunice Torrey, Louise carried the pride of her roots with her throughout her life. In Pennsylvania, she established herself as a welcoming presence in the community, notably serving as a hostess for the Welcome Wagon, which blossomed into many enduring friendships through the connections she shared with her husband, through Sertoma and the Lancaster Women’s Club. Louise’s life was marked by her annual summer trips to Minnesota, where she reconnected with her roots and enjoyed the beauty of her home state.

Louise pursued her passion for education with determination, completing her four-year degree at Millersville University. As part of the opening staff at Price School, she dedicated 25 years of her life to teaching, where she inspired countless students. Her home in Lancaster became a sanctuary filled with laughter, love, and the joy of shared holiday celebrations that often concluded with heartwarming caroling around the piano.

In 1996, Louise retired from her teaching career and found immense joy in nurturing her home and gardens, as well as embarking on extensive travels. In 2006, she took up residence at Woodcrest Villa, where she became a beloved and familiar figure, endearingly known as “the piano player.” Her active involvement in various clubs, including the Iris Club, Towne Club, Women’s Garden Club, Musical Arts, and a dedicated bridge player in many bridge clubs, underscored her commitment to community and service, where she held numerous leadership roles.

A devoted member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Lancaster since 1960, Louise was part of the TWIST group and touched many lives within her church community. Her artistic flair was further expressed in her greatest hobby—knitting. She lovingly crafted pieces for her family, often using leftover yarn to create hats for children in need.

She is survived by her sons, John Franze, husband of Lynn of York, Paul Franze, husband of Jill of Incline Village, NV, Bruce Franze, husband of Cindy of Elizabethtown, and Scott Franze of Lancaster, grandchildren, Alice Klugh, Jack Franze (Maddie), Elizabeth Franze, Nicholas Franze (Sarah), Cal Franze, Vanessa Franze, Emily Neukam (Josh), Ben Franze, John Paul Franze (Alexandra), and Lillianna Franze, as well as 8 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held in her honor, allowing friends and family to come together to celebrate a life well-lived on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 31 S. Duke St. Lancaster, PA 17602, beginning at 11 AM. The family will receive guests from 10 AM until the time of service in the library of the parish house of the church.

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Condolences to the Family

May 18, 2025

It was a pleasure to know Louise (and still is…happy thoughts rise up when I remember her.) She was a role model for friendliness, ease of conversation, and a positive outlook. Louise played Christmas carols on the piano, so we could sing along at our holiday TWIST gatherings in Marilyn Jones’ home, and also her own. Her Wheatland Avenue home had a welcoming aura, that she re-created in her Woodcrest Villa apartment. She took us on a tour of her lovely retirement community.
In our TWIST meetings I appreciated Louise’s openness, confidently expressing her views and sharing family stories. Her devotion to her family was paramount. She also enthusiastically described teaching kindergarteners. I admired Louise’s strength and stamina. With cheerful humor she recalled being a young wife and mother, carrying groceries or laundry baskets up five flights of stairs to their top floor apartment.
Undaunted by the aging process, it was inspiring to see, greet and walk with her at Trinity, deftly manoeuvering her purple walker and bag, and wearing a stylish matching outfit. I am happy to have known Louise, and am comforted to think of her in a peaceful place in heaven. Many warm wishes and blessings to the Franze family.
Betty Ann Godshalk

May 18, 2025

So sorry for the loss of Louise. We played bridge together for many years and always enjoyed our time together.
Alace and Jim Humphreville

May 17, 2025

So sorry for your loss. We were Trinity forum partners for many years. Could not attend the service due to grand daughters graduation from college – but our thoughts are with you all
Tom & Arlene Hassler

May 16, 2025

Louise had such a welcoming personality, dotted with humor and wisdom. As an honorary member, she attended the year-end banquet of the Women’s Garden Club of Lancaster County in 2023 at Millersvile University dining hall and won the silliest garden hat contest, contributing to the fun and laughter to all members. Louise will surely be missed.
Kathy Heil

May 15, 2025

My sincere condolences to the family of Louise Franze. I worked with Louise at Price Elementary. We were both at the beginning of our teaching careers. She was always friendly and welcoming. I have fond memories of her sage advice to this once newly-married transplant to Lancaster. Those students who entered her classroom were rewarded with her care and warmth. May her memory be a blessing for all who knew Louise.
Sherry Ostroff

May 14, 2025

I knew Louise for over 50 years.
Her 4 sons became my good friends.
I enjoyed my “kitchen chats” with her.
I also enjoyed conversations with her (late) husband, Phil.
I believe she was one heck of a bridge player..
Tom Biemesderfer

May 13, 2025

My heartfelt condolences to the family. I will keep your family in my prayers at this difficult time.
On behalf of The Coterie Club, we will miss her! Jackie Holzel, Coterie President

May 12, 2025

My condolences to an awesome educator who I met as a student at Price Elementary.
May her memory and legacy be a true blessing.
Christopher McNeil, Sr.

May 11, 2025

Peace and Love to The Franze and Torrey Family and friends. May God Bless you all; through His wisdom you will find solace. Loving memories will be forever etched in your hearts and souls, memories of a great and caring person who made The World a better place by her generous contributions in her work, her art, her church and her awesome family. The Lord recieved her in His comforting embrace; she is safe in Heaven. Praise The Lord.
Martin Lafferty and Family

May 11, 2025

I had the pleasure of meeting Louise at the Women’s Garden Club of Lancaster County. She always made a point of greeting me and asking how I was. We discussed everything from the weather to new recipes to problems with our perennial flowers. She loved talking about her family and her many trips to Minnesota. She was a warm, caring and classy lady who will be missed.
Nancy Haas

May 11, 2025

Thoughts and Prayers to the Franze Family. Louise was always positive, gracious and generous. Growing up her house was the hub of activites especialy for us all as teenagers and young adults.
Fond Memories.Much Apprecited.!
She will be missed.
R L Kettering

May 10, 2025

My heartfelt sympathy to the entire Franze family. Louise was a dear friend and co-worker. Whenever I was at Price we had lunch together, went to Community Concert for years and many shopping trips. She use to always figure out what she saved from the full price. Now I find myself doing that! We use to go to Newmanstown as couples. Louise and Phil were wonderful dancers. I’m at WCV because of her suggestion. That was good advice from my friend. She was so proud of all of you. You’ll have many precious memories. Most sincerely, Phyllis Stone

Visitation: Saturday, May 17, 2025; 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM; Holy Trinity Lutheran Church; 31 S. Duke St.; Lancaster, PA 17602
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Services: Saturday, May 17, 2025; 11:00 AM; Holy Trinity Lutheran Church; 31 S. Duke St.; Lancaster, PA 17602
Map and Directions: Get Maps and Directions >