Franklin J. Degner

Frankin John Degner, 78, of Watertown, Wisconsin, went to his eternal home in Heaven on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Franklin was born on October 26, 1947, to Vernon Sr. and Beatrice (Krohn) Degner. Franklin graduated from West Bend High School and received his Associates of Applied Science degree in Culinary Arts from Madison Area Technical College in Madison, Wisconsin. Throughout his career Frank was a chef at various restaurants across multiple states, and worked in the food service industry. After retirement, he found fulfillment working his part-time job at Piggly Wiggly in Watertown.

Frank enjoyed outings and activities with family, cheering on the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers, and visiting with friends at local restaurants. Frank’s most cherished pastime was playing sheepshead with friends and poker with family. On any given Sunday you would find Frank taking in the morning service at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church where he was a life-long member, usher, and for several years taught Sunday School.

Franklin’s most important life accomplishment was his relationship with God. He continuously sought a close connection with Him and encouraged that kind of faith to his three daughters, Priscilla, Katie, and Kelly. They will remember him as a kind spirited, generous man and an easy-going father, who never had a bad bone in his body (until he fractured his hip)!

Franklin is survived by: his children Priscilla Weihert, Katie Eske, and Kelly (Angel) Nolasco; grandchildren Gabrielle Weihert and Brendan Timm; brother Dennis (Bonnie) Degner; sister Susan Reuland; sister-in-law Cheryl Degner; other family members; and his dear cat Meeko (Baby Mimi).

Franklin is preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Jane, brothers Vernon Jr. and James Allen, brother-in-law Jerry Reuland, and beloved grandson Alexander Weihert.

A Funeral Service will be held at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Watertown with Pastor Karl Walther presiding. Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM until the time of service at the church.