Byrul Darwin Franklin

Darwin Franklin died on March 13, 2012 at Powell Valley Healthcare. He was 90 years old.
Darwin was born on November 16, 1921 on the family farm east of Garland to Blanche (Atchison) and Byrul Franklin. He was the 5th child in a family of 5 sons and 1 daughter. He especially enjoyed participating in football and FFA in high school. He served as State Treasurer of FFA and was on the state champion football team in 1940. Darwin graduated from high school in 1941 and was married to Naida Buchan, his high school girlfriend, later that year. They were married 70 years. When they got married, Darwin had a tractor, team of horses, new car, and a rented farm. Throughout his life, horses were his passion, especially JoJohn and Wind Hook, his favorite stallions. Darwin bred and raised quarter horses for over 30 years. Darwin and Naida lived on the family farm for 59 years. He enjoyed dancing, cards, and traveling. He and Naida traveled thousands of miles in their camper. Darwin was a member of the Park County Fair Board for 10 years and served as President for a number of the years.

Darwin is survived by his wife, Naida Franklin; children, Michal (Dennis) Tyree, Clif (Jan) Franklin, and Becki (Jim) Rodriguez; 9 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and numerous treasured step grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Russell, Arola, Howard, Paul, and Billy; 1 grandson and 1 great-granddaughter.

Cremation has taken place, and a Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 16, 2012 at the Presbyterian Church in Powell, Wyoming. Thompson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.