Douglas C. Franks, Jr., a beloved figure in his community, passed away on August 22, 2025, surrounded by family in Gilford, New Hampshire. He was 82 years old. Born on May 8, 1943, in Plainfield, Vermont, he was the son of Douglas C. Franks Sr. and Ruth A. Holt Franks. Doug grew up on Maple Hill alongside his seven siblings, fostering a deep sense of family that would define his life.
Doug graduated from Marsh–Plain High School in 1962 and subsequently joined the United States Army. He served in Germany from 1963 to 1966, achieving the rank of E5 Specialist. Although offered a position at Officer Candidate School, Doug chose to return home, drawn by the call of Hardwood Mountain. It was during his time in Germany that he met his future wife, Agavni (Ani) Danabasian. They married on December 30, 1965, in Ani’s hometown of Istanbul, Turkey.
Upon returning to Vermont, Doug and Ani established their home in Plainfield, where they raised three children. Doug worked at State Equipment Co. in Montpelier before opening his own garage, where he utilized his mechanical skills to service everything from simple oil changes to complex engine repairs. His passion for the outdoors was evident in his love for hunting, fishing, and camping, activities he shared with his family.
For many years, Doug guided local Boy Scouts on their annual hiking and camping trips through the Vermont woods to Kettle Pond in Groton. His dedication to youth was further reflected in his role as a Little League baseball coach.
In 1988, Doug and Ani relocated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he adapted his skills to work as a mechanical technician for a plastics company. After ten years, the couple returned to New England, settling in Gilford, New Hampshire, where they spent the last 27 years.
Music played a significant role in Doug’s life. He was an accomplished musician, proficient in playing instruments such as the banjo, guitar, trumpet, saxophone, and clarinet. Doug was a longstanding member of the Hobo Band, founded by his father, which performed in various parades across New England. Alongside his sister Cindy, he continued the family tradition as “Leaders of the Band” after their father’s passing.
Doug was affectionately known by many names: “Junior” to friends, “Uncle Dune Dune” to his nieces and nephews, and “Frank” to his beloved wife. He was known for his integrity and willingness to help others. Doug took great pride in teaching his grandchildren the joys of fishing, hunting, and appreciating the outdoors.
He concluded his working career by assisting his son, Jack, in establishing a successful restaurant and sports bar in Lebanon, New Hampshire, where he remained employed until his retirement in August 2007.
Doug is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Agavni Danabasian Franks; his son Jack Franks and wife Lisa, and their children Ruslan, Anya, and Avery of Walpole, New Hampshire; his daughter Julie MacDonnell, husband Peter, and grandchildren Ian and Cameron of Reading, Massachusetts; and his daughter Melanie Franks of Gilford, New Hampshire, along with her children Jessica and Jacob. Doug also leaves behind loving siblings, including Lucinda Franks, Linda Lamberton, and Edith Dunkling, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Doug was predeceased by his sister Ruby Franks Smith, brothers Norman P. Franks, William F. Franks Sr., Robert A. Franks Sr., and brother-in-law David Hedding. He was also mourned by the families of two nephews, Justin Franks and Lawrence Blakely.
A service honoring Doug’s life is scheduled for September 13, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Barre Free Evangelical Church, located at 17 South Main Street, Barre. Following the service, interment will occur at Plainmont Cemetery in East Montpelier. There will be no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations to the American Heart Association or the planting of a maple tree in Doug’s honor. Arrangements are being handled by Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home in Barre. For a memorial guestbook, please visit www.hookerwhitcomb.com.
