Franklin Braden

Franklin Roosevelt Braden, 82, of Gowen, passed away Saturday morning, November 25, 2017, at Samaritas "The Lodge", in Grand Rapids. The thirteenth child of fourteen, he was born on October 29, 1935 to Clinton & Eva (Holmden) Braden, in Greenville. On January 1, 1997 in Cedar Springs, he married Dorothy Elaine Braden and together they enjoyed almost 21 years of marriage. Franklin was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Korean War. Surviving are his loving wife, Dorothy; children, Greg & Melissa Braden, Amy Braden, Denise Brown, James & Shelley Brown, Jeffrey & Margaret Brown, Dianne Brown, and Lindsay & Roger Young; 16 grandchildren, who lovingly called him "Papa Frank"; two brothers, Claude Braden and James Braden; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. A memorial visitation is planned from 2-5 pm, Sunday, December 10, 2017 at Spencer Township Hall; 14960 Meddler Avenue, Gowen. Honoring his wishes, cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, the family asks contributions be made to The Humane Society. Arrangements were entrusted to Christiansen Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, honored providers of Veterans Funeral Care. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Franklin Braden, please visit our flower store.