Gladys Marilee Franke

My name is Tom Seifert and Ms. Franke was by far the teacher that had a lasting impact on my life. I became a teacher for 37 years and her understanding of all kids with different abilities was way ahead of time. She will always be with me as I wander in the woods in northern Wisconsin. Thank you.

Jefferson High School of the 1970s was made an even more special institution by the work, the personality and the love of Marilee Franke. I was fortunate to have her for several English and Literature classes . . . reading, reading, reading and discussion, discussion, discussion. Committed to the success of every single student, she led us to deeper insights, opened our eyes to the joy of discovery, helped us to realize how differently students of differing backgrounds might understand or interpret the very same passage or scene in vastly different ways, and she ALWAYS was a welcoming and supportive presence. She seemed born to teach, and guide, and care, and challenge, and inspire. She was mighty successful in all, and in each. Thank you, and enjoy your new life as part of nature around us!

Marilee was a true friend, an excellent teacher and an inspiration to so many. I have fond memories of time spent at Friendship Cabin as well as The Land and many places throughout Montana; spur of the moment trips to Aztalan to run the dogs, try out the cross-country skis or make a few runs on the toboggan. Gatherings always included fun, food, and laughter, Marilee deepened and encouraged my love of canines. I always think of her when I converse with my own pack and we contemplate the state of life. Enjoy the new trails and find the best spots to share with the rest of the gang.

It saddens my heart to hear of the passing of Mrs. Franke. I spent many days with Nome at the Ogden street house in Jefferson. I think of the Franke family often, wondering how everyone is doing and where they are today. I do have a story to share from Mrs. Franke's English class back in 1972. There was this guy who kept turning around in class to talk to me. Mrs Franke thought she would fix the problem by telling him if he gets a 100% on this true or false test she was about to give, he could remain at the desk in front of of me. If he didn't ace the test, Mrs. Franke would place him in class where ever she felt fit. The test was given and he answered all the questions correctly. Mrs. Franke kept her word and let him stay where he was sitting. One year after high school, this guy and I were married and this year celebrated our 41st wedding anniversary in April. I believe Mrs. Franke's English class may had a little something to do with that. I wish you and your family well & will always treasure the time I spent with the Franke family. Take care, Mrs. Daniel Petty (Debi Klettke)

The other day, my Jefferson high school classmate Peggy R. grad. class of 1974 posted on facebook; Who was your favorite high school teacher? I immediately thought of this wonderful woman Mrs. Franke. You see, I was failing English, she offered to have me in one of her classes, she encouraged me to put my best foot forward & I never ever forgot her....I loved her colorful eyeglass frames, her non-judgemental ways, and I wondered how does a momma ever recover from the loss of her daughter? I felt very sad after hearing Naomi went to Heaven....Mrs. Franke's strength was part of why I am able to move forward in my own life as my own daughter passed away suddenly of an aneurysm at the age of 31 years old....Mrs. Franke thank you kindly for showing me your strength in such a tragic time in your own life, thank you for all you did to encourage many teenagers to keep their chin up and believe in themselves. Love, Anny Mueller-Schepp , Cottage Grove, WI.