Franklin B. Kenter, 89, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great
grandfather and friend, died peacefully Monday, April 11, 2005.
He was born at home in Bellville on December 7, 1915 to Alma Louise Diedrich
and Ben John Kenter. He was the firs of three children, which included his
sister, Viola Vykoukal, and brother, Leslie Kenter, all now deceased.
After spending his early years in Bellville and graduating from high school
there, Franklin traveled to Houston where he completed Business School and
secured a position with Ervine & Bishop , a wholesale feed and grain
business which was to become his life's work. During 60 years of serving in
increasingly responsible roles, his contribution to the ocmpany was
outstanding. When his treasured friend and principle of the company, J.E.
Bishop, expired, Franklin respectfully served as Executor of his estate,
continuing to work past age 75.
In 1937, Franklin married his high school sweetheart, Grace Darden Bradshaw,
and brought her to Houston where they have made their home for over 67
years. Together they grew a beautiful family and home, supported their
church, and provided an example of love, strength and old fashioned values
for all of us.
Franklin is survived by his wife: Grace of Houston; his daughters: Joy
Holland and husband, Nick, of Houston, and Mija K. Lane of Houston; his son:
Mark Kenter and wife, Karen, of the Woodlands; and his daughter-in law: Anne
Kenter. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jana Basili and husband,
Steve, of Redwood City, Nancy Bevers of San Francisco, Allison Kenter of
Dallas, Brad Kenter of Kerrville, and Kyle and Kelli kenter of The
Woodlands; and great grandsons: Michael and David Basili; and numerous
nieces. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, John Franklin Kenter,
as well as his parents, sister and brother.
Funeral Service was held at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 17 at the Schmidt Funeral
Home Chapel in Bellville with the Rev. Randy Mitchell of Westbury Baptist
Church of Houston officiating. Burial followed in the Oak Knoll Cemetery in
Bellville. Pallbearers were Bradley Kenter, Kyle Kenter, Keith Holland,
Marcus Kenter, Corky Kenter and Bill Lane. Honorary pallbearers were Carlos
"Wood" Woodward, Paul Cravey, Charles Webber and Woodrow Woehst.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to Houston hospice, 1905
Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030.
Arrangements were by Schmidt Funeral Home.

Posted by Joy Neely