Franz, Leonard J. (1895-1972)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 20 Jan 1972 p. 3

Birth date: 1895

text of obituary:

Death Claims Former Tabor President

Hillsboro, Kan. — Dr. Leonard J. Franz, 76, a former president and dean of Tabor College, died at Salem Hospital here on Jan. 12. He had suffered a coronary attack on Sept. 20, 1971 while visiting a daughter in Boston, Mass., and after returning home entered the local hospital on Dec. 24.

Funeral services were conducted Friday afternoon, Jan. 14, in the Hillsboro M.B. Church, with Rev. Marvin Hein in charge.

A native of Inman, Dr. Franz was a graduate of Tabor Academy and Tabor College, and received the B.A. degree from McPherson College. He was awarded the master's degree by the University of Kansas and the Ph.D. degree by Colorado University, Boulder.

Dr. Franz began his career in education by serving two years as principal of Zoar academy, Inman. In 1925 he became a music teacher in the Hillsboro public schools. Later he was made superintendent of schools here, and continued in that capacity until called to the faculty of Tabor college in 1947. He was dean of the college from 1947 to 1956, acting president in 1951-52 and 1953-54, and president from 1956 to 1962. He served as Professor of History and Government until his retirement in 1970.

Dr. Franz was active in civic affairs and the church, and on Dec. 17 was presented a plaque for his 14 years as chairman of the Board of Publication of the United States M. B. Conference.

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 3 Feb 1972 p. 14