Alan Wade Franklin of Ferndale passed away from a tragic accident on April 22, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, his presence and laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Born June 23, 1958 in Fortuna to Marvin and Ida Franklin, he grew up in a close-knit family in the town of Scotia—the same town where he would later raise his own children. Life instilled in him a deep appreciation for family and tradition. He was especially proud of his Wailaki heritage.

After graduating from Fortuna High School in 1976, he first noticed Sandy in 1979. Introduced later by a mutual friend, it was love at first sight. The couple married on March 15, 1980 and went on to welcome three sons: Garrett, Landon and Tyler. Fatherhood became a profound turning point, giving his life deeper meaning that would live on through his boys.

Few things brought more joy than watching his sons compete in sports. Whether it was football, baseball, basketball, or motocross, he never missed a game. His competitive spirit always kept things lively and memorable.

A man who took great pride in his work ethic, he started with paper routes and grocery store jobs before spending 26 years at Pacific Lumber Company. In the years that followed, he took classes at College of the Redwoods, worked in construction, logged his own land, built the family’s forever home in Ferndale, and retired from UPS after forming many lifelong friendships. Even in retirement, he briefly worked for Diamond R Ranch.

Truly one of a kind, he was the heartbeat of the family and a man of his word. Throughout his life, he made sure those around him knew how much they mattered. If you were part of his tribe, there was never any doubt about his love or his willingness to do anything for you.

His accomplishments were many. An Eagle Scout and 42-year member of the Native Sons of the Golden West, he was also a boxer, abalone diver, black belt, motocross racer, logger, cowboy, member of the Cattlemen’s Association, patriot, hunter, basketball player and coach, golfer, party host, BBQ master, card player, music lover and a master storyteller who made everything happen.

He cherished his time at Ruth Lake — relaxing on the water, boating, playing cards, and enjoying a good highball. A man with a deep personal relationship with God, he gave thanks daily for his many blessings and always lived by his conscience, doing what he believed was right.

Alan leaves behind his beloved wife Sandy; sons Garrett Franklin and Lori, Landon Franklin, and Tyler Franklin and Alyssa Johnson; father Marvin Franklin and Dottie Gilliam; brother Brian Franklin (Tay, Briceland, and Keelan); sisters Dana Christen and Hans (Kady and Karly) and Wendy Franklin and Tami; grandchildren Sakari, Jakoda, and Nakinzi Franklin; special grandson Hudson Bobillot; and many cherished cousins, uncles, aunts, in-laws, and friends who were family to him. His favorite dogs, Pablo and Willy, wait for him at the door. He was preceded in death by his mother Ida Franklin in 2002 and several other beloved family members.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 9 at 11 a.m. at Sunrise Cemetery in Fortuna. A celebration of life will follow at the Elks Lodge in Eureka at 1:30 p.m.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Alan Franklin’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.