Michael Franke Obituary, President and co-owner of the Komets

May 2024 · 2 minute read

In Memoriam: Michael Franke, President, and Co-Owner of the Fort Wayne Komets

It is with deep sadness that the Fort Wayne Komets announce the passing of Michael Franke, the beloved president and co-owner, at the age of sixty-three. Michael played a pivotal role in the Komets’ journey, ensuring their continued existence after the original team’s relocation.

In a statement, Michael’s brother and general manager, David Franke, expressed, “Michael was the soul of our family and the Komets.” Michael’s early connection with hockey, playing ket hockey as a child, foreshadowed his profound impact on the Fort Wayne Komets.

Fulfilling a lifelong dream, Michael became the president of the Komets in the summer of 1990. When the original Komets franchise moved to New York that year, Michael, alongside his brothers Bill, Steve, and David, purchased a franchise from Flint, Michigan. They promptly relocated it to Fort Wayne while preserving the cherished Komets name.

Michael Franke’s contributions went beyond Fort Wayne, as he played a crucial role in sustaining the United Hockey League, where the Komets joined in 1999. He also revitalized the International Hockey League and facilitated the merger of the Central Hockey League and ECHL, now the Komets’ home.

Having served on the Board of Directors of the ECHL, Michael Franke’s influence extended to the broader hockey community. This summer, the Franke family faced another loss with the passing of Michael’s brother, Richard Franke.

SEE ALSO:Dr. Aaron Juan Pile Obituary

In a Komets media release, David Franke shared, “Michael was a good man, a loving husband, father, uncle, and brother.” He continued, “We will move forward, but with heavy hearts.”

A moment of silence in tribute to Michael Franke will be observed this Friday before the Komets’ home game against Utah at the Memorial Coliseum. The Komets community mourns the loss of a leader, visionary, and cherished member.

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