Emrie "Jim" Franks, 90, peacefully entered Heaven at the Hospice House in Coeur d'Alene on Feb. 10, 2012. Dad was born in Springdale, Wash., on July 17, 1921, to Mary Boech and John Franks. Dad was one of ten children born to John and Mary. Dad chose to quit school after the 4th grade to work with his father to help support his family. Dad joined the U.S. Navy on Aug. 30, 1942, and was honorably discharged on Dec. 5, 1945. Dad often talked about the good times he had while in Hawaii and crossing the equator. One of his best memories was when he and his brothers met up while on liberty. Dad earned the rank of Aviation Ordnanceman First Class. Dad was very proud to have served for his country.

Dad met Eleanor Trampus at a dance in Waitts Lake, Wash., and on Oct. 17, 1945, they were married. They lived in Jump Off, and Valley, Wash., where they started their family of five children.

Dad worked various jobs, including a truck driver but mostly sawmills. In 1964 dad went to work at Post Falls Lumber Co. until retirement from Louisiana-Pacific in 1987. After retirement dad enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing, camping, canning his own fruits and vegetables. He especially enjoyed baking his famous zucchini bread which he shared with all. He enjoyed spending time with his family and dear friends.

Dad and Mom lost their oldest daughter Jeannie in 1968. Then in 1988 Dad lost Mom, the love of his life. Although he lost mom, Dad continued to be the pillar of strength for our family even after losing a grandson (Chris) in 1993, and his oldest son (Jim Bob) in 2009. Dad is also preceded in death by his mom and dad, four sisters, and three brothers.

Dad is survived by daughter Janice (David) Coe of Hayden Lake; Sons, Jerry (Teresia) Franks, and Joe (Lorna) Franks, both of Post Falls. Also surviving Dad are seven grandsons, seven granddaughters, and 14 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Elmer (Buster) Franks of Portland, and John Franks of Valley. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and friends; as well as four, four-legged furry friends that shared his lap and his bed, keeping him warm at night.

We will miss you Dad, the world has lost a very special man and father who was loved by all who knew him. May you rest in peace and enjoy the fruits of heaven. Don't worry about us, you raised us well and we all thank you for being our Dad.

Our special and forever grateful thanks goes out to Hospice of North Idaho. 'Angels on Earth' is the only was to describe this group of people. The family wishes all memorial and contributions be sent to Hospice of North Idaho.

A Rosary will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012, at English Funeral Chapel, 1144 North Fourth St. in Coeur d'Alene, ID. A Funeral Mass will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, at Holy Ghost Parish, 3083 Hemlock St., Valley, Wash. Following the Mass, burial will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery (Jump Off Joe Cemetery) also in Valley. 

Please visit Jim's online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com