SAVOY, IL (Chambana Today) – Lucille Mae Franzen-Ryan, 91 years of age, passed away at 7:23 pm on Saturday, Oct 12, 2024 at home in Savoy. Lucille was born on May 1, 1933 near Gifford-Flatville, the daughter of John and Grace Franzen.
Lucille graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1951. She married John R. “Rocky” Ryan on February 27, 1954. Rocky passed away on November 3, 2011. Lucille is survived by 2 sons, Jeffery (Jill Burke) Ryan of Delray Beach, FL and Gregory (Barbara) Ryan of Urbana and 2 daughters, Patricia J. Ryan of Dallas, TX and Karen (Mark) Kennerly of Champaign. Lucille had 10 grandchildren, Meghan, Kelly, John, Phoebe, Sophia, Katie, Jamie, Ramy, Michael and Betty. She also had 7 great-grandchildren, Avery, Turner, Liam, Ronan, Meesha, Leena and Danyal. Lucille was preceded in death by her parents, John and Grace Franzen, as well as 3 sisters, Annetta Frerichs, Erna Mennega, Evelyn Paul and 1 brother, Norman Franzen. Lucille is survived by 1 sister, Bernice Loschen. Lucille also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, whom she cherished. Lucille was a devout Catholic and a longtime member of St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in Champaign. She was employed with the Champaign Telephone Company and the Hart Oil Company for many years. Lucille also volunteered for many years at Daily Bread Soup Kitchen.
Lucille absolutely loved life and had a great sense of humor. She was affectionately known by some of her family and friends as “Loose Wheel”. Wherever Lucille went there was a party. She was an accomplished pianist and passed on her love of music to her family. She was a huge fan of Stevie Wonder and recently attended a Rolling Stones concert with her son, Jeff, at Soldier Field. She was a life master bridge player and was always up for a game of euchre at any gathering. Lucille was an avid bowler and golfer throughout her life. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting. Lucille also loved sports and was a huge fan of the Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls and the Steph Curry Golden State Warriors. She was an avid Cubs fan for many years until the Cubs let Greg Maddux go and he signed with the Atlanta Braves.
Per Lucille’s wishes she will be cremated. Lucille’s visitation will be from 9:30-11am on Monday, Oct 21 at St. Matthew Feeney Hall, 1307 Lincolnshire Drive, Champaign. The funeral Mass will begin at 11am at the church. Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Champaign. A luncheon will be served after the burial in Feeney Hall and all are welcome.
Memorials may be made in Lucille’s honor to Daily Bread Soup Kitchen in Champaign.
Lucille enjoyed a rich, full life for over 91 years on this earth. Lucille was a fantastic daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister and friend. Lucille will be greatly missed by all who were touched by her life.
Condolences may be offered at Owens Funeral Home.
