Bishop William Franklin anoints the hands of Father Bruce DeRammelaere June 10, 2006, at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Davenport. Father DeRammelaere was the last priest ordained by Bishop Franklin. The bishop ordained 18 men to the priesthood and eight to the permanent diaconate during his time in the diocese.
Bishop William Franklin served the Diocese of Davenport for 12 years. Here are some reflections on his life and legacy.
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Bp. Walsh Bishop Dennis Walsh, 10th bishop of the Diocese of Davenport, said, “Known throughout Southeastern Iowa as a ‘gentle shepherd,’ Bishop Franklin’s tenure was defined by a profound kindness and a pastoral heart. His leadership was marked by a quiet strength and an unwavering commitment to the people of his diocese. Even in his retirement and final days, those who cared for him noted that his characteristic warmth and gratitude never wavered.”
“Bishop Franklin embodied the heart of a servant. His legacy is not found merely in the administration of the Church, but in the thousands of lives he touched with his gentle spirit and Christ-like compassion,” Bishop Walsh added.
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Ebener Dan Ebener worked under Bishop Franklin as director of social action for the diocese all 12 years. The current director of parish planning for the diocese said, “Bishop Franklin was filled with such joy that it exuded to everyone around him. He was always expressing gratitude to his staff, the clergy or anyone that was doing God’s work. I remember after one long weekend with a Pacem in Terris ceremony, I came into the office on Monday morning and there was a handwritten note of thanks from Bishop Franklin in my mailbox. When he spoke publicly, he always started by thanking everyone.”
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Frick Mary Frick said, “He was always so gracious. Bishop Franklin touched so many lives during his years of ministry. I was blessed to be his secretary for 10 years and then to be his friend and caretaker during his 20 years of retirement.”
Back in 2006, Bishop Franklin marked 50 years as a priest. At that time Frick said, “Bishop Franklin is truly a delight to work for and with. He continues to be a wise teacher in his leadership role as bishop and when he goes out in the diocese for confirmation and other events.” She noted Bishop Franklin was known for practicing subsidiarity. He sought input when making decisions with wisdom and compassion.
Frick said Bishop Franklin brought a “personal touch” to the chancery. “He’ll go out and stop by the various offices to see how staff members are doing. He shows that he is genuinely interested in what is going on in their ministries and their lives. He is accessible.”
Bishop’s 20 years of retirement “were affected by some challenging health issues. But he rarely complained and continued to live the Serenity Prayer with a gracious acceptance of the things he could not change,” Frick added.
“His lived his final eight-plus years at the Kahl Home where he continued to touch lives just as he had done throughout his life. He was so appreciative of the staff assisting him. He always loved nature and found joy in simple walks in the courtyard and being outdoors. Sister Lois (Baniewicz, OCarm, former administrator at the Kahl Home), shared how he continued his ministry to others when they took him to visit residents where he would always offer a blessing and bring joy.”
“Bishop Franklin was a joyful, prayerful and faithful servant of the Lord. May he now rest in peace.”
