William L. Franklin

William L. Franklin, 76, of Fort Dodge, IA, died Thursday, December 25, 2025, at Southfield Wellness Community in Webster City, IA. A celebration of life gathering will be held from 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM at VFW Post 10302 in Springfield, IL on January 4, 2026. Memorials may be directed to the family. Arrangements are with Historic Bruce Funeral Home of Fort Dodge. 

William was born August 12, 1949, in Springfield, IL, the son of William O. and Anna L. (Rapp) Franklin. He graduated High School in Springfield. On August 8, 1969, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War until his discharge on November 20, 1975. Bill was united in marriage to Theresa Fijalka. The couple later divorced. Bill enjoyed spending time with his family – especially his grandchildren. He also enjoyed eating out – especially Mexican cuisine, taking care of his dogs “Daisy” and Bianca” and watching Westerns. He was a member of the VFW.

Bill is survived by 2 daughters: Shannon Douglas and husband Brady of Fort Dodge and Cassandra Franklin of Yelm, WA; 4 grandchildren: Owen, Jeremiah, Lyra and Paetyn; and 7 siblings: Steve Franklin and wife Sandy of Illinois, Larry Franklin and wife Margaret of Illinois, Evelyn Woolen and husband Bill of Illinois, Penny Burrell of Illinois, Melissa Middleton of Illinois, James Franklin of Illinois, and Arvil Franklin of Alabama. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son: Jeremiah Franklin; his twin brother: Robert Franklin; 3 sisters: Kathy Wright, Susan Franklin and Ellie Beth Franklin; brother: Johnny Franklin in infancy; and half-brother: Edward Franklin.