GILBERT J. FRANSEN, JR., 47

ALAMOSA — Gilbert J. Fransen, Jr, 47, died unexpectedly June 20, 2012.

He was born Dec. 4, 1964, in Artesia, Calif. and lived with his family in Minnesota before moving to the San Luis Valley in 1974. Gilbert married his high school sweetheart, Julie Garretson Fransen, on March 15, 1986.

Gilbert was an active member of the Alamosa Christian Reformed Church during the course of his life, and was involved in FFA Agriculture. He also loved to spend time nurturing the many farm animals he and his family own. In addition to his love of farming, Gilbert had a genuine love of people.

He and Julie recently celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary. They had four children together, Dustin Grant Fransen, 24, Chad Benjamin Fransen, who preceded him in death, Nathan Dean Fransen, 20 and Katie Ann Fransen, 17.

The Fransens enjoyed many family activities including camping, hunting and snowmobiling. Their excursions often included extended family and many friends.

His maternal grandparents, Clarence and Hariet Kooiman, his paternal grandfather, John Fransen and his paternal uncle, Rodney Fransen, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Julie Garretson Fransen, and their children Dustin, Nathan and Katie; his parents, Gilbert and Barbara Fransen; his sisters, Judy Prins, Karen (Bill) Edwards, Marcia (Don) Mangan and Brenda (Nick) Rolling; and his nephews and nieces, Darren, Brandon (Jessica), Jason, Michael, Drew, Jessica, Alyssa, Mollee (Grant), Donovan, Bethanie,and Jacob.

Funeral services were at River of Life Church on Tuesday, June 26. Burial was in the Alamosa cemetery.

Arrangements were in the care of Rogers Family Mortuary.