Franklin D Vaden, 83, of Lewiston, formerly of Battle Creek, passed away Tuesday, June 6, 2017 at Otsego Memorial Hospital in Gaylord, MI. He was born July 17, 1933 in Monterey, TN the son of Howard and Lula (Buckner) Vaden. Frank was a graduate of Battle Creek Central High School and was an all-state athlete for both football and baseball. He continued his education at WMU, earning his Bachelor’s in Business. Frank proudly served in the US Air Force, obtaining special security clearance while working under Vice President Nixon. He married JoAnn Stebleton on June 29, 1953 in Gulf Port, MS. Frank owned and operated the New Hudson Airport in New Hudson, MI and had a passion for flying. He also owned and operated Saw Rite in Plymouth, MI. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and having a cold Pepsi. He was an amazing and loving family man. He loved to laugh and make others laugh. Frank will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife, JoAnn; children, Jeffrey (Karen) Vaden, Debora Severns, and Gregory (Jenny) Vaden; brother, Carl (Norma) Vaden; and grandchildren, Bradley Vaden, Melissa Vaden, and Marina Severns.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral service will be held Thursday at 1:00 PM a Bachman Hebble Funeral Service with Pastor Don Weatherup officiating. Burial will be at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI. In lieu of flowers memorial tributes may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.