Russell D. “Butch” Duane “Butch” Franke

Russell Duane “Butch” Franke, of Waterloo, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at the Elite Lodge of Ashworth in West Des Moines. Born on May 20, 1938, Russ was the third son of Edwin and Edna Franke and grew up alongside his brothers Don, Dean, and Dick. He graduated from East High School in Waterloo in 1956 and maintained strong ties with his classmates throughout his life, regularly attending monthly alumni gatherings until moving to West Des Moines in November 2025.

Russ proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1957 to 1960. Stationed at Camp Pendleton, he also spent 18 months overseas in Okinawa, reflecting his dedication to military service. In 1961, he married Kathy Murphy at the First Congregational Church in Waterloo, where they remained lifelong members. Together they raised two children, Bob and Kris (Smith).

Russ began his long career with John Deere in 1960, retiring in 1998. His work included international travel conducting research on tractor components. While working full time, he earned a business management degree from Upper Iowa University in 1989. After retirement, Russ combined his love of golf and community by serving as a starter with Waterloo Leisure Services at South Hills Golf Course, where he stayed connected with friends and former colleagues. He especially cherished his weekly rounds with friends known as the “South Hills Masters.”

Russ and Kathy shared a love of travel, which they expressed by spending 25 years as snowbirds in Orange Beach, Alabama. They were both active members of the Iowa/Alabama Snowbird Club, and Russ also joined a daily men’s coffee group, where he developed many meaningful relationships. Russ also enjoyed spending time with family and friends at Diamondhead Lake, Dexter, Iowa.

Russ is survived by his wife, Kathy; his son, Bob, and Bob’s wife, Patty; and his daughter, Kris, along with her husband, Paul. Russ cherished his grandchildren: Zac Franke (Alyssa), Amanda Stach (Cooper), and Max Smith (TBD). Among his greatest joys in life were his five great-grandchildren-Bryson, Grace, Wyatt, Ian, and Liam.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family which will later be donated to the Cedar Valley Honor Flight.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 18, from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Locke Funeral Home, 1519 W 4th St, Waterloo, Iowa. Military honors will be performed at 1:00 p.m. followed by reflections from the family. There will be an opportunity for friends and family to share their memories as well.