Kristina Adele Franklin

Kristina Adele Franklin, 53, of Lock Haven, Pa., passed away at Geisinger Hospital Jersey Shore on Nov. 18, 2024, from health complications.

She was born Nov. 10, (which also happens to be the Marine Corp birthday, to her father’s delight), in Yokosuka, Japan.

At a young age, Kristina was world-renowned for her attitude, humor, not holding back her opinion and a knack for telling it like it is. She could be loud, funny and a stubborn force to be reckoned with. She also loved her candy!

Kristina was preceded in death by grandparents, Rev. and Mrs. Norman Larsen, of Tamarack, Pa., and Mr. and Mrs. James Franklin, Sr., of South Renovo, Pa.

She is survived by her loving companion, Marc Kearnes; parents, Marine Corp Ret.GySgt. James (Chie) Franklin, Jr. and Kathleen Larsen Franklin; a sister, Katrina (Grant) Johnson; and many lifelong friends and family.

Growing up, Kristina helped care for her grandparents and beloved Aunt Doris. After school, she worked at various jobs including caregiver with a Home Healthcare Service and at the Kettle Creek Inn. However, she realized her calling was to help wildlife animals. After attaining her wildlife rehab certification, she established Bigwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Tamarack, Pa. She rescued hundreds of injured wildlife, nursing them back to health and releasing them back into the wild. It was always interesting, funny and at times frightening when she told stories of caring for and releasing the various wildlife animals.

During the last few years, she would tinker in her flower gardens, make crafts, play online games with friends, enjoy candy and provide continued support for her mother in Fulmer’s Personal Care. She will be missed greatly!

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Kristina’s name may be directed to Centre Wildlife Care by visiting centrewildlifecare.org/donate