Walter Wayne Franz of Hutto, also known to many as Bubba, left this earth surrounded by his family on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022, at the age of 81 after a courageous fight with cancer.
He was a loving husband to his wife, Carolyn, of 32 years; a proud father to Fanessa Daniele and husband Teak of Conroe, Felisha Long and husband Jared of Round Rock, and J.D. Franz and wife Stacy of Waxahachie; a devoted grandpa to Haden Stelpflug and wife Rachel, Keegan Brown, Hannah Stelpflug, Riley Brown, Sofia Vaca, Connor Long and Jordan Franz; a loyal brother to Eddie Franz and wife Irene of Houston and Larry Franz and wife Elaine of Inez; and a caring uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Walter was born on Oct. 6, 1941 and raised in Inez by his parents, John Henry and Ruby Franz. After graduating from Industrial High School, he enlisted in the Air Force and proudly served four years. His military experience took him across the globe, sparking his passion for travel and adventure. After the military, Walter began working in the oilfield and studied at night to become a Certified Public Accountant. He was dedicated to his work and spent 26 years as vice president of finance in the oilfield industry, living overseas in Dubai, Singapore, Argentina and Bogotá. He and his wife Carolyn were married on Sept. 21, 1990 in Dubai. When he wasn’t working, he was planning his next adventure with his three children so they could also experience the world and travel to many other countries with him. Walter was incredibly proud of his children and went out of his way to make sure they knew it. He saw the world as beautiful and spoke only about the good in everyone. He cherished his grandchildren and made sure he was there to cheer them on every chance he had.
After retirement, he made his home in Hutto, but enjoyed spending time at his farm in Schulenburg with family. His face would light up at the mention of food and he loved catching up over a glass of wine or a good cigar. He had a passion for astronomy and talked about the stars to anyone who would listen. He was not afraid to try anything new and was always ready for his next adventure.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ruby Franz, and brother, Dwain Franz.
Funeral services were held on Monday, Nov. 21, 2022 at 11 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Schulenburg, followed by interment in the church cemetery. Rev. Chase Goodman officiated. Pallbearers were Teak Daniele, Jared Long, Haden Stelpflug, Keegan Brown, Connor Long, Chris Franz, Cullen Franz and Trey Franz.
Walter always narrated his happenings in life and event plannings in the third person. A life well-lived, a story well-told. “What a beautiful rendition from a ‘gentle giant’ we all love and miss,” his family writes.