Brian Franklin, of Deloraine, a man known for his years as an educator, municipal leader and decades of work with Hockey Manitoba has died.

Franklin spent years with Hockey Manitoba working his way up to become President. That organization reported Franklin passed away Thursday May 5th after a brief illness.

Deloraine Winchester Reeve Gord Weidenhamer has known Brian Franklin for years and it all started when he was one of Brian Franklin’s students. “I maybe wasn’t his best student at school but in later years through our community and council work I respected him and listened to what he had to say. He was a real community leader."

Brian was a teacher for 36 years until 2002 and after retirement continued as a Student Teacher Supervisor for five years with Brandon University. He was actively involved in the community as President of the Deloraine Golf Club and working with a local service club.

Franklin joined Deloraine Town Council back in 1994 and spent 20 years on council with 16 years as Mayor of Deloraine where he spent several years working with councillors and Reeve Weidenhamer.

“He was my mentor, a close friend and someone who would listen and he earned your respect and he’ll be missed in our community.”

Hockey was a big part of Brian Franklin’s life. He spent more than 50 years involved with the game he loved. He started officiating when he was 15 and had many highlights including officiating at the Canada Games in Brandon, the MJHL and two US College Championships.

On the administrative side Brian Franklin was President of Minor Hockey in Deloraine from 1981 to 1987. He also played a major role in developing U18 AAA Hockey in Manitoba. He held several positions with that league including President. He also spent time as President of the Tiger Hills Hockey League.

Franklin was President of Hockey Manitoba from 2007 to 2012.

“He rose to the top in every organization he was involved with and you have to respect someone who gives so much and gains so much respect” said Weidenhamer.

“When it comes to Brian he’s what I’d call an old breed of community worker. He gave so much back and did so much for the community. He knew what it took to get projects completed and that’s something the younger generation could learn from. Many hands make light work and get involved. Brian was a good example of that because he could bring people together and get things done. He made me proud to be a part of this community.”

Brian Franklin was predeceased by his first wife Claudia. He is remembered by his two children, Tony (Val), Carrie (Rod), his current wife Val and 5 grandchildren.

Brian Franklin was 74.