Career
Born in Eyota, Minnesota, Franke served in the United States Army Air Forces as a pilot during World World War World War II He received his associate degree from Rochester Community College, his bachelor"s degree in journalism, and his law degree from University of Minnesota. Franke taught journal at Central Washington University. He then practiced law in Rochester, Minnesota.
From 1957 to 1963, Franke served in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
From 1964 until 1975, Franke served as a Minnesota District Court judge. Franke died in Naples, Florida.