Obituary of John Buckley Franks

John Buckley Franks, 68, of Falconer, died Friday, April 14, 2017 in his home following a lengthy illness.

A Jamestown native, he was born November 17, 1948. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Myron B. and Eleanor Bauernschmidt Franks, known to many as 'Buck' and 'Barry' Franks, and his infant daughter, Ashley.

One of his first jobs was at Camp Chautauqua. John was a graduate of Syracuse University and the culinary arts program of Mercyhurst College. His passions were cooking and good food, as anyone who ever shared a meal with him can attest. He was a chef in a number of restaurants in Erie and Jamestown, most recently at the Town Club. He was devoted to his various dogs over the years and especially involved in training his new bullmastiff, Buck. He was an avid fan of old westerns, particularly John Wayne. He enjoyed gardening and watching birds with his wife, Patty. He will be remembered by many for his frequent acts of kindness, especially gifts of his wonderful cooking, and his exuberant friendliness.

John was bigger than life to so many. It was once said, "When John smiles, he smiles with his whole being and you feel the joy."

John is survived by his wife, Patty Gilliam Franks; two sisters, Louise Franks of St. Louis, MO and Susan (Frederic) Buse of Albany, NY; a brother, Dr. Edward Franks of Albany, NY; and a niece, Emilie Buse of Brooklyn, NY. Also surviving are a stepson, Mark (Tresa) Blackburn of Phoenix, AZ and stepdaughter, Samone Sousa of Maine; two grandchildren, Denver and Dakota Blackburn, both of Phoenix; and several cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 13, 2017 in Bellinger Chapel of First Presbyterian Church. Friends will be received from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday, May 12, in the Lind Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to a charity of one's choice.