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.