Ronald "Bear" Franks, 79, of Marion, passed away Wednesday, April 21, 2021.

Per his last wishes, there will be no funeral.  A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 4 P.M. Saturday, May 15th at The Eagles Club, located at 1735 11th Street N.W., Cedar Rapids.

Ronald Gene Franks was born February 9, 1942 in Iowa City to Thomas Jefferson and Frances Marie (McLain) Franks.  He worked for the City of Cedar Rapids for 40 years.  He also worked for Two Star Detective Agency for many years.

He married Judith Bates, and they had a son, Jeffrey Allen Franks.  They later divorced.  On December 18, 1981 he married the love of his life, Melanie (Brewer) White Brubaker.

Ron loved spending time with his family and friends, hunting, fishing, camping, sports, and the Iowa Hawkeyes.  He was a jokester, quick witted and always happy.  He could make anyone smile.  Ron was proud of and loved his family very much.

Ron is survived by his wife, Melanie; sons, Jeffrey (Kelli) Franks of Cedar Rapids, Christopher (Jenifer) Franks of Palo, and daughter, Sarah Lamb of Cedar Rapids; brother, Jerry (Gwen) Franks of Arizona; sister-in-law, Jane Franks; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren as well as several extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Jack (Carol) Franks, Bob Franks, and Richard Franks, and son-in-law, Eric Lamb.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Melanie Franks c/o Papich-Kuba Funeral Service, 1228 2 ^nd Street S.E., Cedar Rapids  52401.