Brian James Franklin, 51, left this world on April 21, 2026, as the result of a motorcycle accident. Brian was born on Nov. 28, 1974, in Burlington, Iowa. He was the son of Jim and Nancy Franklin.
Brian graduated from West Burlington High School and served his country in the Army during the Gulf War. He spent time in Arizona, Illinois, and Iowa, where he made many life-long friends. He enjoyed golf, fishing, and was very active in his church and community in Des Moines. He was the helping hand to everyone he saw in need.
Brian was a joy to be around. His friends have said he had the biggest personality in any room with a perfect smile and a laugh that went with it. We still see him with his Oakley sunglasses on his forehead. He loved being a part of the Hope+Elim Men’s Ministry. On Saturday mornings, he helped cook and serve. He joined the congregation to study God’s word. He was faithful in his daily attendance and service at the church by helping to do whatever was needed to be done whether inside or outside. That was Brian. His church was a lighthouse in the community. Brian had a beautiful bright light that shone every day as he served with a smile and with compassion.
His death is heartbreaking to so many. The mantra that he lived by was “This is your LIFE. Do what you love and do it often.” Brian loved helping others. He had a poster in his home that completed his thoughts with: “Life is short. Live your dream and share your passion.”
To all the friends and family who loved him, please know he loved you too forever and for always.
Brian was preceded in death by his father, Jim; three uncles, Dennis, Marty, and Tom Menke; and his aunts, Janice Driscoll and Judy Franklin. He is survived by his mother, Nancy; his sisters, Molly (Mark) Ostap and Amy Franklin; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Services will be held in Hope+Elim Church in Des Moines on Saturday, May 23. Visitation will be at 1 p.m. with services at 2 p.m. on that date.
To honor Brian Franklin’s love of Men’s Ministry and the service he provided to Hope+Elim Operation and Facilities, his family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be sent to Hope+Elim Men’s Ministry, 2500 University Ave., Des Moines, Iowa 50311.
A private inurnment in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Burlington, will be held at a later date.