Ronald Joe Franklin, 63, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at home on Sunday, October 12, 2025.

Ron was born in Muncie on January 21, 1962 to the late Marvin and Clara Franklin.  He graduated from Delta High School in 1981.  He co-founded and owned Car Tunes Stereo in Muncie for several years. In 1997, he began a long career working for General Motors, first at New Venture Gear in Muncie and then later in Fort Wayne, where he met and made many lifelong friends.

Ron was a proud member of the UAW 2209. He enjoyed playing guitar, riding his motorcycle, and was very mechanically inclined. He was very passionate and knowledgeable about astronomy, engineering, current events, and music.

Ron is survived by Gale, the mother of his five children with whom he raised five amazing accomplished adults, each of whom he was exceedingly proud, Craig (Julie), Madison, Jared (Katlynne), Jackson, and Julian.  He is also survived by his grandchildren: Maya, Oliver, Ezra, Rhett, and Reid. Ron is also survived by his three sisters: Linda Meyer, Phyllis Eby, Vickie Knief, and several nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Joyce (Bud) Carrier.

A celebration of Ron's life will be conducted at 4 p.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025 at Meacham Funeral Service in Albany.  Visiting hours are Friday from 3 until 4 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Meacham Funeral Service, P.O. Box 275, Albany, IN 47320 to help with funeral expenses or to Muncie Animal Rescue Fund (ARF), 1209 W. Riggin Rd., Muncie, IN 47303.