Rest In Peace
Past Commodore Jim Franzek

**Obituary for James Franzek DVM, better known as Jim, Jimmy, Doc, Dad, Daddums, Uncle Jim, Papa and Grandpa**

 

Jim passed away peacefully at home on December 4, 2024.  Born on August 9, 1942 in Buffalo, New York, he leaves behind a cherished legacy of love and laughter.

 

Jim grew up helping his parents at the Clover Club in Cheektowaga, went to St. Joe's, then to Cornell University for both undergrad and Vet school. He loved attending reunions and walking up the hill. Upon return to Buffalo, he founded Lancaster Small Animal Hospital. For 37 years, he lived his dream of caring for animals and their owners, building many valuable relationships in the process.  He continued to work past retirement, opening unofficial offices in the barkyard, the church parking lot, or even on facetime.

 

Jim lost his first wife of 14 years, Margaret “Marge” Kidd, mother to Chris and Katie, too early in life. He was fortunate to have over 40 years of happy marriage with his second wife, Mary, and have three more children: Matt, Lizzie, and Suzy.  He is survived by Mary, his 5 children, daughter-in-law Lee, and sons-in-law Andrew and Steve. Jim was also an adored grandfather by his five grandchildren: Kevin and Natalie Woeber, Caroline Franzek, and Theodore and Annabelle McNamara. His home was always full of beloved pets.

 

He took immense pride in being a father and his greatest joys came from spending time with his family.  Each of his kids spent time racing sailboats with him, and he modeled joy, skill, equanimity, and sportsmanship when at the helm. At different times, he was a world class rower, a hockey coach, a black belt in tae kwon do, a church volunteer, Commodore for the Buffalo Harbor Sailing Club, and a member of the New York State Veterinary Board.

 

Jim had a gift for storytelling, always eager to (repeatedly) share his adventures. He loved to dance, lighting up the room with his wild, offbeat dance moves and infectious smile.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Estelle; his brother and sister in law, Fred and Marianne; his sister, Suzette; and his first wife, Marge. He is survived by his two sisters, Maryanne and Patty, as well as by many nieces and nephews, who will miss him dearly.

 

As we remember Jim, help us celebrate the life he led. A mass of remembrance will be held on Tuesday, December 10th at 10 am at the Newman Center, 495 Skinnersville Rd., at SUNY Buffalo.

Flowers are gratefully declined if desired donations can be made to the Buffalo Yacht Club Foundation that supports Boaters Education-he loved to teach new people to sail.

His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Please have a Dark and Stormy in his honor.

 

Rest in peace, dear Dad. You will be missed beyond words.