J. Franklin Keifer

J. Franklin Keifer, 92, of Keeler passed away Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013, at Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility, Coldwater.

Franklin was born Aug. 26, 1920, in Willshire, Ohio, the son of James and Wilma (Daly) Keifer, both of whom precede him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were his wife, Elaine, on March 1, 2008, and two brothers, Tom Keifer and Paul Keifer.

Franklin served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was formerly employed with Clark Equipment and Coloma Farm Supply. He grew up and lived in Coloma before moving to Keeler in 1960, where he tended to his own farm.

Franklin is survived by two daughters, Bernice Krause of Coldwater and Wilma Stone of Kalamazoo; a son, James (Nanette) Keifer of Hartford; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a brother, Marvin Keifer of Tennessee.

The family will welcome friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 31, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor his memory will commence at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1, at the Keeler United Methodist Church, with Pastor Richard Grom serving as officiant. Military rites will be conducted by the North Berrien Military Rites Team. Cremation will follow the services. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences to the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.