Francis H. "Fran" Voelker

A true champion and friend of SCSU Mass Communications students. Fran would always take time to find out how alumni were doing once they left the department, and what they were doing with their careers and family life. He was a key player in getting the Stewart Hall renovations completed, and a state-of-the art television facility in place for the broadcast side of the program. It gives me great pride to be serving the department as an adjunct professor. I think of Fran often when working with students.

Uncle Fran was a wise and gentle man, beloved by all- including us! The profound love of the entire Voelker family for their most cherished husband, father and grandfather has been an inspiration to us all, and the tireless care and devotion of Aunt Mil in particular as she watched over her beloved husband through his prolonged illness has been truly humbling to behold. Our thoughts and love are with you all. Much Love, Sharon Osborn, Jeremy Ginnett, Althea, Miles and Isabelle

I will always remember Uncle Fran as a kind, generous, and fun loving inspiration. His broad grin and mischievous twinkle in his eye will live on forever in my memory. Many a good time were had in his company and my deepest sympathies go out to Aunt Mil and the rest of the Voelker family. May this time of mourning be short and the time of loving eternal!

I was so sorry to see that Professor Voelker passed away. He had a profound affect on my life and probably didn’t realize it. I’m sure this is much the way teaching at SCSU went … many of the great successes go unknown since the students have moved on. Fran wasn’t my teacher, he was running the SCSU Mass Comm department when I arrived at his office inquiring about transferring from the University of Minnesota. He took time out of his day to talk to me — a complete stranger — and then walked me around campus. He listened to my interests and directed me on how to enroll. Years later I graduated with degrees in English and Mass Comm. and went on to write and report for the St. Cloud Times and St. Paul Pioneer Press. From there I went on to my high school and college teaching career. It may have seemed a small gesture to Fran, but for a professor to take that kind of time to invite someone into the University showed true compassion. He cared so much that I made the right decision to transfer.
My condolences to the Voelker family … Fran isn’t someone I’ll forget. His kindness and compassion as a teacher hopefully will carry on through his many students.

Uncle Fran was always very gentle and calm, and he was great with kids–I remember when he taught me to play “Shuffleboard Cafe” on his Mac in the early days of home computers. He and Aunt Mil have always been so generous with their love. Much love to the whole family–our thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to you all. Susi, Chad, Jackson, and Gracie Hoyt

It’s been such a long struggle for Uncle Fran, Aunt Mil and the whole family, I’m glad it’s finally over and he can be at peace. We’ve been praying for you all throughout this, and will continue to do so.

Uncle Fran was one of my most admired and cherished role models. Although the loss & grief are palpable, our memories and his example will always live on. Congratulations, Uncle Fran, on a life well lived and a reward well deserved. Pray for us as we grieve this loss.

All our love,
Steve, Annalee & Mary Beth Osborn

He was a good uncle and a good supporter of my military career

I will always remember Uncle Fran fondly! He was a gentle giant so full of love, laughter, and kindness. I feel blessed to have had him in my life for so long. His life was a true testament of his beliefs. We can all celebrate now his new eternal life! All our prayers and wishes are with you these days.

My thoughts and prayers are with you as well as gratitude for the creative and dedicated life of Francis.
In Christ’s love,
David

I have my class praying for Uncle Fran and all of you. I will miss him very much. He was a brave and loving uncle. All my love—

What a shining example of how one should live, if they wish to live a good life. Fran was kind, compassionate, courageous, a hero to family, friends, his students and coworkers, faithful and industrious, with brilliant humor and keen intelligence. If you can, try to be like Fran.

May your family find comfort in the memories that are yours to cherish always, and strength in the companionship of those who share your loss. My deepest sympathy.

May your family find comfort in the memories that are yours to cherish always, and strength in the companionship of those who share your loss. My deepest sympathy.

Fran’s picture exemplifies who he is and will be in our memories of him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Fran’s family.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all; I’ll always remember Fran as a kind and gentle man.

I am at a loss for words. I want you to know my prayers are with you and I pray Goid will give you and your family strength. Cherish the memories you have of our Dad. You are a blessed man to have a father for such a long part of your life.

Greg

Francis was a man of dignity of whom his family was proud. It was an honor to know him.

My thoughts and prayers to you and your family. I’m sorry for your loss.