Michael Duane Franklin, age 68, of Muncie, IN, passed away Saturday evening, August 23, 2025, at the Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. He was surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren who loved him dearly.

Michael was born on a special Christmas Day, December 25, in 1956, in Delaware County.  He is survived and missed by his loving wife, Sheryl (née Slaven) of 29 years, his son Joshua Franklin, and son James Young alongside daughter-in-law Jennifer Young. He is forever cherished and remembered by his three grandchildren, Austin, Brandon, and Caitlin Young, and by his beloved and most treasured great-grandchild Archer Nance. He is survived by siblings Connie Craycraft, Sharon Clevenger, and by sister Mona and her husband Bill Williamson and predeceased by their parents Phillip and Norma (née Conn) Franklin.

Michael had multiple professions during his life, but he was especially proud of being a volunteer firefighter for the Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department for over twenty years, being in the Carpenters Union, and being a carpenter cabinet maker at Ball Memorial Hospital, what he called his 'dream job.' Michael, in his career and in his life, took delight in being of service to others, showing his generosity and love through helping his community. Because of this love and generosity, Michael never knew a stranger and was a friend to all. His gleaming blue eyes and warm smile made anyone he looked upon family, and he took great delight in making everyone feel special. His determined spirit, his will for life, and his loving nature will forever be etched in our hearts

Calling hours for Michael are on September 5, 2025, 11:00 until 1:30 at Garden View Funeral Home, 10501 N. State Road 3, Muncie, IN 47303.The funeral services will begin at September 5, 2025, at 1:30 at the funeral Home There will be a graveside service at Gardens of Memory Cemetery after the funeral.