Franklin Alphons Wannemacher

Franklin Alphons Wannemacher, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, at the Suncoast Hospice Mid Pinellas Care Center in Pinellas Park, Florida. Born on July 2, 1941, in Montpelier, Ohio, Franklin lived a life full of adventure, creativity, and deep connections with those around him. He was 84 years old at the time of his passing, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.

Franklin was preceded in death by his sister, Gloria, and his parents, Charles Alphons and Evelyn Iona (Stoy) Wannemacher. He is survived by his bride-to-be, Terri Brouthers, and her child Kenneth M. Rohner (Sherry), along with Terri’s cherished grandson Kai M. Rohner and granddaughter Mikayla Tipton (Donny). Franklin’s warmth and humor will be missed by brother Robin (Rita), sister Marlene (Dick), and Robin’s children—Lisa (Peter), Eric (Suzy), Denise, Amy (Eric), and Alex. He also leaves behind many cousins who will forever treasure their memories of him.

Franklin proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army, an experience that shaped his character and instilled a deep sense of pride in his service. His career was as diverse as it was impressive; he worked in all types of construction and dock work in Charleston, South Carolina, and owned a dental crown and bridge lab in Toledo, Ohio. He was known for his craftsmanship, repairing, creating, and resizing gold and silver jewelry at the Ladson Flea Market in Charleston. After relocating to Florida, he dedicated 13 years of his life to the 49’er Flea Market and the Mustang Flea Market, culminating in a store at the Skyway Marina Mall before his retirement.

Outside of work, Franklin had a multitude of interests that filled his life with joy. He was an avid dancer, skilled in swing, shag, and ballroom dancing—a passion that blossomed when he met Terri at J.B. Pivots in Charleston. Franklin also held a pilot’s license, and his love for flying and keeping up with Cessna designs was a testament to his adventurous spirit. He was a history buff, a voracious reader, and embodied extreme kindness, never meeting a stranger. Franklin’s sense of humor and love for all kinds of music enriched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Franklin’s family and friends are invited to celebrate his life during a graveside service at Bay Pines National Cemetery on August 6, 2025, at 2:30 PM. It is a time for all who knew him to come together and honor the man who touched so many lives with his generosity and laughter.

A special thank you is extended to Al and Dinah Beres and Bob Evans at Belcher and Gulf to Bay for their support and care during Franklin’s final days.

Franklin’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laughter, and countless memories. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace, knowing he made a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.