Lewis John Frantz

Lewis John Frantz, proud Army veteran, legendary storyteller, and lifelong character extraordinaire, passed away Friday, April 17, at his home in Springtown.

Born October 8, 1962, in Wilmington, Delaware, to the late Robert and Gloria Frantz, Lewis enlisted in the United States Army shortly after graduation, proudly serving his country with honor and dedication. After his military service, he continued his lifelong mission of keeping friends and family entertained—usually with a fishing story that somehow got bigger every time it was told.

An amazing and loving husband and dad, Lewis was known far and wide for his “bigger than life” personality and stories that could stretch to record-breaking sizes. If you knew Lewis, you definitely heard about the legendary “one that got away,” his love for fishing at PK Lake, and his ability to be the life of the party—even if he was the one who started the party in the first place. His life revolved around baseball, good company, and good food—especially Butterfingers and butter pecan ice cream, which he considered essential food groups.

Lewis never met a stranger, only friends he hadn’t told a story to yet. He believed laughter was meant to be shared, meals were meant to be enjoyed, and that dessert should never be skipped if butter pecan ice cream was involved.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Conner Frantz; his son, Robert “Robby” Frantz; his daughters, Tiffany Frantz, Stephanie Beck and husband Chris, Brittany Kinsey and husband Jared, and Paris Jacobs and husband Justin; his sister, Laura Davis and husband Lee; and the mother of his children, Susanne Frantz. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and a host of friends too numerous to mention—many of whom are still debating the true size of that famous fish.

Lewis will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Somewhere, we’re certain he’s casting a line, telling a story, and making sure everyone around him is laughing.