Loretta Jean (King) Frana

In Loving Memory of Loretta Jean (King) Frana

November 11, 1965 – April 17, 2025

Loretta Jean (King) Frana, 59, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on April 17, 2025, as a result of injuries from an automobile accident. A devoted Christian, her faith in Christ was the guiding light of her life, bringing comfort, strength, and joy to her and to all who knew her.

Loretta was born on November 11, 1965, in Muscatine, Iowa, to John and Barbara (Telsrow) King. The eldest of three siblings, she grew up on her family's farm, surrounded by cattle, dogs, pigs, and crops that her father farmed. Loretta’s deep love for animals began in her youth and remained a constant throughout her life.

Loretta was a graduate of Bennett High School in 1984 and went on to earn her associate’s degree at AIB College of Business.  She enjoyed a diverse and fulfilling career serving as a children’s librarian at the Tipton Public Library and later as a Customer Service Manager at Swiss Colony.  Loretta touched many lives through her work teaching arts and crafts at Vacation Bible School.  She loved being able to share her creativity and faith.

Loretta married Mark J. Frana on July 5, 2005, in the mountains of Wyoming. Together they built a life filled with love, adventure, and shared passions which included their devotion to animals. As members of the National Siberian Husky Club, Loretta and Mark cared for countless dogs, both show and rescue dogs, along with cats and horses. Loretta’s heart was truly boundless and her generosity extended not only to animals but also to the many people she cherished.

Faith and family were central to Loretta’s life. She was an active member of Peace Church of Christ in Bennett, Iowa, and participated in Bible Study Fellowship. Her love for the Lord shone through in her thoughtful actions, her kind words, and her unwavering positivity. She was known for sending heartfelt cards for every birthday and holiday, keeping close connections with her nieces and nephews, and celebrating their lives in personal and meaningful ways.

Loretta found joy in music, particularly Christian and country genres, with Dolly Parton being one of her favorites. She treasured scenic vacations with Mark, including trips to Branson, Nashville, and Pigeon Forge, and found inspiration in visiting the Ark Encounter and learning more about Noah’s story.

Loretta was preceded in death by her father John King, her mother-in-law Monica Frana, and her brother-in-law Monty Frana. She is survived by her mother Barbara King, her husband Mark, her brothers John (Kimberly) King Jr. and Michael (Kami) King, her father-in-law Marcelline Frana, her sister-in-law Michelle (Larry) Lienemann and her niece Katie (engaged to Brayton Duin), her sister-in-law Andrea Frana and her nieces Maclayne and Makenna, her sister-in-law Melanie (Bruce) Smit and her nephew Braydon, her brother-in-law Matt (Jessica) Frana and her nieces Olivia and Emma, her niece Stephanie (Bob) Mangrich and great-niece and great-nephew Kennedy and Robby, and her nephews Jared and Brody King.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Peace Church in Bennett, Iowa, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Loretta will be laid to rest at Inland Cemetery in Bennett, Iowa. A luncheon in her honor will take place at the Bennett Legion Hall following the burial.

Online condolences, photos, and cherished memories of Loretta may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com.