FRANKS Allen W. Franks, Senior Master Sergeant, age 81, returned to be with the Lord April 3, 2011 after a brief illness. Preceded in death by parents, brother, Billy, son Michael Allen Franks, US Army. Survived by wife of 40 years, Edeltraut "Trudy" Franks; nephews, Bill (Jan) Johnson, Brian (Debbie) Johnson, Bob (Annette) Johnson, David (Robin) Johnson; sister Rosemary Johnson; brother Dave Franks. Born in Ashland, Ohio March 17, 1930 to John Wesley and Gertrude White Franks. Graduate of Ashland High School class of 1948. Auto mechanic for Donley Motors K-F/ Studebaker Autos until September 1950. Enlisted with USAF, completed basic training, and many fighter jet aircraft engine maintenance schools. First assignment was to 3640th pilot training/maintenance squadron as a "torch-tender" aka "Fighter-jet Crew Chief." Later flight chief "B" flight, responsible for safety of 16 jet aircraft maintenance and personnel out of 190 base wide at Williams AFB, AZ. In November 1953 was assigned to Laredo, AFB, TX as flight line safety NCO, working with Lockheed Aircraft factory "tech" rep's until honorable discharge September 1954. Upon returning to Columbus, Ohio, he enlisted with 121st Squadron, Ohio Air National Guard, Lockbourne AFB, Ohio. Later assigned to Donald Groves flight of Lockheed F80C fighter jets as "air technician" for many years. Worked on types of fighter jet aircraft maintainers with team members that were trained and motivated guardsman to be mission oriented resulting in achieving their goals to be "the cream of the crop" of professionalism as fighter jet maintainers. To enable 121st fighter pilots to be "the best in the air and ready for any mission." Allen aka "Big Al" was recalled to active duty during several national/worldwide crisis along with his guardsman. After a long, enjoyable, nerve-racking 36 years with USAF/Ohio National Guard, he retired in 1986 as SMSFT Air Tech Jet Aircraft Scheduled Maintenance Supervisor. "Thanks everyone for a good ride!" Funeral service Thursday 2:00 PM EVANS FUNERAL HOME 4171 E. Livingston Ave. where friends may call from 12:00 Noon until time of service. Rev. P.K. Fowler officiating. Interment Glen Rest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Heart Association.