Franklin Gene VanOrsdol, 1944 -2021

Franklin Gene VanOrsdol was born Sept. 19, 1944, in Bristow, to Glen and Judy VanOrsdol and entered into eternity with his Heavenly Father on Monday, March 15, 2021, at his home in Bristow. He was 76 years old.

On Aug. 15, 1968, Gene VanOrsdol married Sharon Brown in Gypsy. They enjoyed 52 years of marriage, raising three children, Pat, Rachel, and Jennifer.A gentle giant, Gene was an incredibly hard worker, most days working from before daylight at his welding job, until after dark on his farm. He worked diligently, never complained, and provided well for his family. Although he worked hard and lived a good, moral life, he realized later in life that being a good, hard working man wouldn't be enough to get him to heaven. At around 65 years of age, kneeling beside his couch at home, Gene gave his life to the Lord, a decision that led him through somevery difficult times.

In his spare time, Gene could generally be found at his cabin on the dock with his fishing pole, working with his cattle, or pilfering in his shop. He cherished time spent with his sweetheart, Sharon, helping out his kids, and entertaining the grandkids. He leaves a legacy of what a family man should be and has left a gaping hole in the hearts of his loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his son, Pat VanOrsdol, his parents, Glen and Judy VanOrsdol, and a brother Pat VanOrsdol. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon VanOrsdol,of their home, two daughters, Rachel Lenington, and husband Burke, and Jennifer Morgan, and husband Matt, of Bristow, nine grandchildren, Brian VanOrsdol, of Brighton, Colorado, Cassidy, Chase, and Casyn Johnson, Abby, Olivia, Joslyn, and Josie Morgan, all of Bristow, and Brody Lenington. In addition, he is also survived by two brothers, Mike VanOrsdol and wife Melba, of Bristow, Danny VanOrsdol and wife Dana, of Bristow, and two sisters, Sharon Whitehouse and husband Wilbert of Bristow, and Kathleen Smith, and husband Jackie, of Bristow, as well as a host of family, friends and loved ones.

Visitation will be held Thursday, March 18, 2021 at the Bristow Holiness Church. Funeral service is scheduled for 2 p.m., Friday, March 19, 2021 at the Bristow Holiness Church with interment to follow at the VanOrsdol family cemetery. Condolences can be sent to www.hutchinsmaplesfuneralhome.com