Brian Keith Franson

Brian and I were both on the gymnastics team at WMU but at different times so we first met in 2001 when we were both coaching at a gym in Grand Rapids. We have been friends since then. He and I have played dozens of rounds of golf in the past two decades and hundreds of games of cricket (darts). We have shared in life’s struggles and triumphs. To this day he was the last person I have wrestled with; neither he nor I are one to back down from any challenge and I don’t recall exactly how it began but I’m sure it was all in good fun when we both assured each other that a pin was sure to soon happen… I was not able to pin him but neither could he pin me! That being said he was an incredible athlete and competitor; on the golf course he was clearly better, at the darts he was slightly better, as a gymnast he was in a whole different realm better. As a coach (with a degree in kinesiology) he was so very much more knowledgeable and would gladly share his expertise. As a friend he was truly caring and thoughtful. He was encouraging and kind; he gave a great man hug never just a chuck on the arm or a bro hug and he always added the comment “love ya brother”! On the golf course we always did a “birdie back tuck” (he did way more than I) to celebrate making a birdie and I’ve witnessed him making at least three Eagles over the years- I would often bring my daughter golfing with us and he was her favourite - whenever I would invite her to join me her first question was always with hopeful anticipation “is it with Mr. Brian?” So I am grieving with all who loved him and I will miss him dearly. He is also a part of the reason my kids love the sport of gymnastics so I am grateful that he could pass along his enthusiasm to them. Most sincere condolences to all that knew Brian.

- Thad David Cypher

Brian was my son!s best friend. They Were much alike in many ways. Fun, funny, cared deeply about many things and shared their love for Jesus. Brian was a frequent face at the house and we thought of him as our second son! Even after high school graduation, we had a chat now and again, certainly not as often as we could have, but always a pleasure to hear about him and his daughters from Jon. Girls, your dad was a great guy! We will hold his memory in our hearts.

- Denise Strimple

I competed gymnastics with Brian at Western Michigan university. When the freshmen started, he met us at the dorms and played volleyball in the same courts. He immediately welcomed us with laughter and the sense of belonging.He was the best all around gymnast on the team. He was always there to lend advice, make you suffer a little bit more in conditioning, and encourage you. He was a great team captain. Have a wonderful part of my college experience. I'm forever grateful for the time and energy he shared with us all.

- Brad Hutchison

My B-Bud, you left this world way to soon baby brother. You have left an amazing legacy in the way you raised your daughters and the way you helped your friends! While we didn’t get to be as close as we should be, You we’re my baby brother and my love for you never wavered! At least daddy snd Grossemuter we’re there to meet you and help you through this transition of this life to an eternal one! We will be there to always support the girls and love them as you love them!!

- Lisa M Franson Lynch