PASSING OF LONGTIME ROTARIAN THOMAS J. FRANTA

Thomas Joseph Franta born June 30, 1922, of North Canton, went to be with his Lord on May 29, 2018, just 30 days shy of his 96th birthday. He was a long time resident of North Canton, spending the past five years at Windsor Medical Center and most recently at the Canton Christian Home. Tom Franta was an extraordinary person who touched the lives of so many and will remain in our hearts always as we celebrate his life and his legacy. He lived his 95+ years with integrity, honor and dignity. Tom was a man of faith who devoted himself to his Lord. Tom was one of five siblings. Tom's brother, Edward, and three sisters, Rose, Mary Ellen and Irene were the five children of Teresa and John Franta. John was the founder of the Canton Sign Company, the family business which is still a vibrant contributor to Canton's economy and beyond. In his younger years Tom and brother, Edward, worked with their father at the shop and took over operation of the business after the war. Tom's passion for art called him to follow his muse and he painted, exhibited and sold his work for many years.

He is preceded in death by his parents and all four of his siblings. Tom Franta was an honored member of the Ohio Watercolor Society, painting hundreds of pieces which were collected far and wide. He was a Master Watercolorist, capturing light and depicting the essence of his subjects. He was an active Canton Rotarian for 54 years and painted 20 historic scenes in and around Canton to support the work of the Canton Rotary through Christmas cards of his paintings. Tom was an avid bridge player, enjoying the game well into his 90's. Tom loved to snow ski and was the co-founder of the Canton Ski Club in Robertsville, Ohio. He was an avid outdoorsman who treasured time with nature. He was a Fisherman and a Grouse hunter. His long-time friendships and family were especially cherished.

Tom survived the tragic deaths of his two beloved children, Maurice and Valerie, and his love and partner in life, Ginger. He is survived by his grandson, Rob Clow, (wife Dora) and two great-grandchildren, Mary & Jude. He is also survived by sister-in-law, Margie Franta (Edward); nephews, Philip ( Myriam), Timothy, Dennis, Mark (Barb) and niece, Diane Franta; nephews, Mitch, Scott, David, Tom, Kevin, Brian and niece, Cindy Cochran (Pat); nephews, Michael, Jeff and niece, Jill Bowermaster. Many great and great-great-nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends also survive. He was always ready to share a story of the goodness of people and his survival on the battle fields of WWII in France as First Scout with the 405th Infantry. He earned a purple heart and saved the lives of many of his fellow soldiers. He was awarded a Bronze Star for heroism in the Battle of the Bulge.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, 11:00 A.M., June 6, 2018, with Fr. Scott Kopp as officiant. Friends may call one hour prior to the mass in church on Wednesday. The celebration of Tom's life will continue at St. Michael's - Fannon Center with a small luncheon reception following the burial in North Lawn Cemetery. Special thanks to the loving care givers at the Windsor and the Canton Christian Home. Also a special recognition to Cindy DeMarco for keeping Tom supplied with watercolor paints and brushes; and for bringing Marge to visit him on a weekly basis. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Catholic Charities or Rotary Foundation. You may sign our guest book at shriverfuneralhomes.com

Spiker-Foster-Shriver Funeral Homes & Cremation Services 330-455-0349 Shriverfuneralhomes.com