Christine Anne Franke

Christine Anne Franke was born April 11, 1941 in Milwaukee, WI. She died on January 28th in Oconomowoc, WI.

Chris was preceded in death by her parents Ernie & Betty Franke, and her brother-in-law Peter Vebber. She is survived by her siblings Mike (Chris Julson), Susan Vebber, Mark (Mason Sherwood) and Ann Corning (John.) Also, her son Josh Franke-Hyland, grandson Joshua Franke, Cathie Ambush, and many nieces and nephews.

Chris embraced opportunities to study and teach around the country; living at times in California, Oregon, and Minnesota before eventually returning to Wisconsin to spend her remaining years near family.

She was a lifelong learner and an avid reader. Chris received her Bachelors in Theology at Marquette University and both her Masters and Doctorate at the University of California - Berkeley. She was a scholar of the Old Testament -particularly Isaiah- and authored numerous books on the subject. Her career was spent teaching in churches and colleges, most notably at St. Catherine’s University in St. Paul, Minnesota. As a professor, Chris went above and beyond; immersing her students in the passion that she felt on the subject, giving them the confidence and inspiration to ask questions and find their own conclusions.

Learning languages and exploring different cultures was also a constant pursuit. She traveled to the Middle East to expand her understanding of the Old Testament, and also ventured with family and friends to Africa, Antarctica, the Arctic, and Europe. Chris loved her Steinway baby grand, not only as an instrument to play but also as a powerful symbol of her love for classical music. Those who knew her best understood that her piano was an extension of her, a manifestation of her dedication and creative exploration.

Chris was very social, making friends and bringing laughter wherever she went. She loved entertaining; these were opportunities to play games & cards and to create amazing meals (always complete with a glass of red wine!)

We’d like to thank the staff at Wilkinson Woods and Azura Memory Care for blessing her final years with happiness, comfort, and meaning. 

She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

A visitation to celebrate Chris's life will take place on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church (145 E. Lisbon Rd, Oconomowoc, WI 53066) from 1:00pm-2:00pm, with a service to follow.