Dr. Robert Bruce Franz, 77, passed peacefully on Saturday, January 23, 2021.

Born February 3, 1943, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, he was the son of the late Robert E and Roberta M Franz.

“Bruce” is survived by his son Joaquin (Rhonda) Franz, grandson Morgan Franz, brother Rick Franz, and his companion Kathy Gifford.

Bruce’s last year and a half of life were not the “Golden Years” experience he envisioned. Paraplegia, sadly, robbed Bruce of enjoying his retirement years as planned. Gratefully, Bruce’s quality of life was comfortable in his final months, by being in the comfort of his home. During this time of declining health, he was lovingly and patiently cared for by his companion, Kathy Gifford. As Bruce’s son, I will be eternally grateful for Kathy’s devotion to my father.

Bruce followed in his father, Robert E Franz, footsteps in pursuing a career in podiatry. He began his career in Antioch, Calif., and later moved to Northern California, where he opened practices in Crescent City and Arcata. Bruce found solace in the beauty and slower pace of life in Northern California.

Of the many passions in Bruce’s life, he spoke with the utmost fondness of his time in the Peace Corp in Africa. He often spoke with awe, describing the sounds of the lions roaring at night. His hope was to return to Africa one day.

Bruce was also an accomplished high school and college football player, and enjoyed regaling us with the stories of the “glory days.”

My father was a loved man. He had several friendships that were maintained from young adulthood, that were extremely valuable to him. My father, large in part, assisted and encouraged me to have a “Huck Finn” childhood. He gave me freedom and trust during late adolescence, which helped form the confidence to successfully enter into adulthood.

I consider it a privilege to be a Franz. We are providers, loyal companions, adventurous and respected citizens.

A memorial service, for family and close friends, will be held at a later date to be determined.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Bruce Franz’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.