Sandra “Sandy” Lynn Franzen, 76, of Kearney, Nebraska, passed away Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at Brookstone Gardens in Kearney.

She was born June 15, 1947, in Cozad, Nebraska, to Thearle “Parkie” and Fern Elizabeth “Betty” (Chapin) Parkhurst. She grew up in Cozad but graduated from Gothenburg High School with the class of 1965.

Sandy was united in marriage to Donnie Franzen on June 20, 1965. They lived in Farnam, Nebraska. Four children were born into this union: Baby Austin, Steven, Scott, and Timothy.

During Sandy’s high school years, she worked at the public swimming pool, where she met Donnie. He asked to see her whistle, which ultimately caused everyone to vacate the pool. Upon moving to Farnam, Sandy started working at Donnie’s mom’s Cafe and the local farmers’ Cooperative. Sandy joined the Farnam Bank in 1972 as a teller and was promoted to the head cashier until her retirement in 2002. Sandy was the boys’ biggest fan, always attending every event. The boys always felt her support as she was usually the loudest voice on the sidelines. While Sandy enjoyed retirement, she missed working with the public. She joined Wal-Mart in 2003 as a cashier and jewelry lead until 2022. During their years in Kearney, Sandy enjoyed spending time with their dear friends Dave & Julie Axman, playing cards, socializing, and enjoying laughter.

Survivors include her husband, Donnie Franzen of Kearney, Nebraska; children, Steven (Jacki) Franzen of Fremont, Nebraska; Scott (Melissa) Franzen of Kearney, Nebraska; and Timothy (Sara) Franzen of Parker, Colorado; six grandchildren, Noah Franzen of Lincoln, Reese Franzen of Fremont, Carter Franzen of Fremont, Kealey (Maverick) Widdowson of Shelton, Avery Franzen of Kearney, and Bella Bujanda of Parker Colorado, Sister Barbara Story of Carrollton, Texas, and close cousin Connie (Ron) Ourada of Kearney. Numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Paul David Parkhurst, son Baby Austin and sister Mynette Roblee.

Sandra, known affectionately as Sandy, was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her family was her pride and joy; she dedicated her life to their happiness and well-being (which included her fabulous cooking). Her love for music and singing was a constant throughout her life. She served as the director of the United Methodist Church choir in Farnam, NE, sang for many years with the Easter Pageant choir, and was a member and served as the President of Sweet Adelines/Nebraska Pride Chorus. When not singing, Sandy found solace in her garden, tending to her beloved flowers.

The memorial service to honor Sandy’s life will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kearney, Nebraska. Pastor Tim Barone will officiate the service. Following the service, there will be a time for refreshments, allowing attendees to share their memories and support one another.

Burial will be in the Farnam Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Nebraska Pride Chorus.

Nebraska Pride Chorus
ATTN: Cheryl Wilke
5610 Eastbrook Drive Unit 5
Kearney, NE. 68847

Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel