Karleen Barbara Franklin, 85, of Red Wing and formally of Goodhue, passed away at her home on Tuesday morning, February 9, 2021. She was born in Hastings to Charles and Helen (Kirchen) Wollmering. She graduated from St. Boniface Elementary School in 1950 and Bethlehem Academy in 1954. She received a degree in English from the College of St. Benedict in 1958 and a Master's degree in Library Science along with a Media Specialist certification from the University of Minnesota.

After teaching English at Maple Lake and Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Karleen began teaching at Goodhue and became the High School librarian. After meeting Goodhue's Irish mailman, David Franklin, they were married on June 9, 1973 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Goodhue and spent a lifelong commitment and dedication to each other and their community.

Karleen participated in many professional and community organizations. She was the charter president of the Lioness Club and served as an active member of the Goodhue Education Association for two years as president. She negotiated for teacher's salaries for many years. She was also active in auxiliary units of the rural postal carriers during the time Dave was a postman. She was a member of the Hiawatha Teachers Association and a charter member of the Goodhue Area Historical Society serving as secretary for both organizations. She also enjoyed events with the Goodhue Red Hats as well as coffee with the ladies at the Sawyer Inn.

Examples of her research and work for the community are evident in two books she authored: "Goodhue-One Hundred Years" was written for the Goodhue Centennial in 1997. She wrote the Holy Trinity Parish Centennial in 2003. The Goodhue Area Museum has benefited from her expertise in reports, grant writing and office maintenance. She categorized all the artifacts, organized a library of books, and published the society's quarterly newsletter.

The Franklins made their home in Goodhue until moving to Potter Ridge in Red Wing in September 2019.

Karleen is survived by her loving husband David Franklin of Red Wing, a brother Charles (Mary) Wollmering of St. Paul, a sister Catherine (Gerald) Muntifering of St. Cloud and 8 nieces and nephews who always looked forward to spending time with their special Aunt and Uncle at the "Franklin Inn." There was a special bond and many good times had by all! She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Lawrence Wollmering.

There will be a burial service at St. Columbkill Cemetery on Friday, February 19 ^th at 1:00 pm. A celebration of life will be planned for Spring.

Memorials are preferred to the Goodhue Area Historical Society, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, or to the donor's choice.