It with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Francis “Franny” Duane DeBoer, 91, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Franny passed away peacefully at his home on September 22, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.
Franny’s journey in life began in Crookston, MN on April 30, 1932, one of five children of parents, Frank and Una (Briden) DeBoer. He attended the District 140 Old Brick Schoolhouse until the 8th grade. After completing his education, he embarked on a career in farming alongside his father, Frank and brother, Claire. Later on, he joined forces with his father-in-law, Veral Gibbons, and together they managed their farming operations. The love for agriculture ran deep in Franny’s veins, as he shared this passion with his sons and farmed alongside them.
On August 29, 1953, Franny was united in marriage to Colene Gibbons at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Crookston. They shared 70 wonderful years together and had four sons: Dennis, Gary, James, and Todd.
Franny honorably served his country with the US Army from March, 1954 until his discharge in March, 1956. He proudly served with the 554th Ordinance Company of Fort Hood, Texas. His time in the military instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and dedication that carried over to every aspect of his life.
Beyond farming and military service, Franny had various hobbies and interests that brought immense joy to his life. He had a passion for collecting toy tractors and thoroughly enjoyed attending toy tractor shows where he could share his enthusiasm with fellow collectors. Franny also found pleasure in restoring John Deere tractors to their former glory. Aside from these hobbies, Franny took his family on many trips across the country, especially to Branson—one of his favorite destinations.
As much as he cherished his hobbies, the true essence of Franny’s character shone through in his role as a family man. He was an exceptional husband who always showed kindness and compassion towards his beloved wife, Colene. Franny’s dedication to being a loving father was unwavering; he took great pride in nurturing and supporting his children throughout their lives. Being a grandfather and great-grandfather brought him immeasurable joy, and he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren.
Franny’s attention to detail was evident not only in his farming practices but also in the way he cared for his family. He approached each aspect of his life with meticulousness and a genuine desire to create a nurturing and loving environment for those he held dear.
A kind and gentle soul, Franny will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, dedication, and generosity will continue to inspire those left behind. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the beautiful life he lived.
Francis is survived by his wife, Colene (Gibbons) DeBoer; Sons and Daughters-in-law: Dennis (Kelly) DeBoer, Gary (Beth) DeBoer, and James (Nell) DeBoer, all of Crookston; and Todd DeBoer of Baxter, MN; 11 Grandchildren: Cole, Brady, Alex, Tiffany, Jessica, Jordan, Nicole, Samantha, Ashley, Janessa, and Evan; 9 Great-Grandchildren: Myla, Kenzie, Hudson, Evelyn, Jersie, Avery, Ryker, Rhett, and Aiden; 2 Sisters, Pearl Radi of Fargo, ND, and Vivian Berg of Vancouver, WA; and 2 Sisters-in-Law, Clarice DeBoer of Crookston and Susan Gibbons of Eagan, MN. Fran is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Una DeBoer; Daughter-in-Law, Marcie DeBoer; Grandson, Joshua DeBoer; Parents-in-law, Veral and Doris Gibbons; Brother, Claire DeBoer, Sister, Jean Solheim; and 3 Brothers-in-Law: Everett Solheim, Les Radi, and Alan Berg.
The Funeral Service to honor and remember Franny will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 26, 2023, in Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 217 S Broadway, Crookston, with a one-hour visitation prior to the service. The service will be livestreamed by going to his obituary page at www.stenshoelhouske.com and clicking on the prompt to view. Franny will be laid to rest in Oakdale Cemetery, Crookston, with Military Honors provided by the MN National Guard Funeral Honors Team and the Crookston Veterans Council.
In lieu of flowers please consider a gift in Franny’s name to Hospice of the Red River Valley.
