Christen Cazort Franke

Christen Cazort Franke


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Dec 4th, 2016

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  • Death Date: Dec 4, 2016

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Biography: Christen Cazort Franke, 37, passed away Sunday December 4, 2016. She was so much more than we can write in this space, this is almost impossible to do. She was born May 15, 1979 in Little Rock, AR. After college she became the manager, and heart and soul, of her family?s restaurant, Franke's Cafeteria. She worked side by side with her beloved parents, William and Carolyn Franke, in continuing on the tradition of providing food served with love to the community. She was set to marry her fianc?, the love of her life, Daniel Christakos, on January 14, 2017 and had never been happier. She was a best friend and sister, to Kathryn Franke Kitchens, and a loving sister-in-law to Kevin Kitchens. In one of her most favorite roles, she was beloved Aunt CC to her niece and nephew, Katelyn and Andrew. For them, she hung the moon, and is now dancing in the stars. She was also an adored friend to many, granddaughter, niece, cousin, daughter-in-law, and a respected member of the restaurant community. She was loved by all who knew her and could light up a room with her smile. She will be greatly missed. Heaven has never shined so bright. A celebration of Christen?s life will be held on December 9, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at St. James United Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to the Humane Society of Pulaski County.

Condolences(81)
Erika Kaplan, Allentown Pennsylvania
#81
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My words cannot express the depth of my sorrow.

May God Bless your family as He holds her in His arm.

Erika mile
Chastity
#80
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
It's hard to accept the news. Franke made my senior year at Central and young adult years memorable whether it was listening to her belt out a tune, putting me on to Tori Amos or grabbing a bite at the restaurant. I knew more than likely I would see her there anytime I visited home and wanted to catch up. I will always remember her big heart, straight forward delivery with kindness and her awesome hair. My condolences to The Franke family and her fianc?.
The Pedens
#79
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Reading these messages paints a picture of a bright, beautiful, and kind young woman who touched many ... Heartfelt condolences to the Franke and Cristakos families. Grace and peace to you! We celebrate God's promise to all who believe.
David Bowers
#78
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Bill & Carolyn,
Working with the family I came to know and respect her as a person with the highest standards.My thoughts are with you you though these times.
Connie Harrison-Simmons
#77
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Mr. & Mrs. Franke -

Our hearts were saddened at the news of Christen's passing. Even though we did not know her personally, we came to love seeing her and her beautiful smile and her friendliness to all she met. Katie and I, and Frank who passed away almost 11 years ago, have enjoyed eating at your table for more than 25 years and have come to love your family. May God hold you all tight and carry you through this time of loss and give you a peace beyond understanding. We continue to pray for you all.

Katie Harrison & Connie Harrison-Simmons
Diana & Randy Moore
#76
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our thoughts and prayers to Mr. & Mrs. Franke and family and to Christen's fiance' Daniel. We only knew your lovely family from visiting the restaurant. Over the many years we have eaten at Franke's twice a week and we always enjoyed seeing Christen. She always had that beautiful smile for us all! She will be sorely missed by all your customers but we know she is sitting beside our Lord now and continues to bless all those around her. We will always be here for the family whenever needed. Randy,Diana,Erica & Baby Gwen Moore.
Larry Ward
#75
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I remember coaching Christen in basketball at P.A. She was such a joy and full of energy. Bill and Carolyn you have my deepest sympathy and you are in my prayers.
Reginald Rogers
#74
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
The Franke Family: I knew Christen from her work at the Rodney Parham Franke's Restaurant. She was always kind with that gorgeous smile! I knew of her family through our Catholic High brotherhood. What a great hard-working family! She will be greatly missed! May she rest in the Peace of Christ! Reg Rogers Catholic High Class of 1977
Katherine Lord Butler
#73
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
When I think of Christen I think about our time together at Waldemar. We were inseparable, took all the same classes, earned every canoeing achievement possible as partners, to watching her shine in Drama class.. without her, I'm not sure I could have gotten on the plane every summer and said goodbye to my family.. She was an amazing friend and for a month every summer my family.. I will always remember the times we shared! I'm praying for you all! Lots of love.
John R. Wimberly
#72
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I was deeply shocked and sad when I read of Miss Franke's death.
Her sweet smile and welcoming attitude made visiting the cafeteria. She always called me Mr. John.
Pleas accept my deepest sympathy at this time.

Sincerely,
John Wimberly
Harpers Ferry Job Corps
#71
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Mr. C, your family at the Harpers Ferry Job Corps Center are so sorry for your lost. We are praying for you and the family. If you need us we are just a call away.


Mark & Lyne Abernathy
#70
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We are so saddened by the loss of this beautiful lady. Her family, friends & loyal customers will miss her greatly. The entire family is in our thoughts & prayers.
Miriam Morehead
#69
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
So sorry for the loss of Christen. I always looked forward to seeing her somewhere along the serving line whenever I ate at either store. I first came to know her at the downtown location and, most recently at the Rodney Parham site. I was there on this past Sunday and remember wondering where she was. I pray that God comforts your family. Peace to you during this tragic time.
David Austin
#68
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Carolyn, Bill, Kathryn and family,
Debbie and I are thinking of you and sending prayers for comfort and a sense of God's presence at this dark and difficult time. Your sense of loss must surely feel almost impossible to bear. Christen has been so nice to us and we loved her warm and gracious spirit. Whether we were talking about neighborhood news, food and service business, holiday d?cor, or just her greetings at the restaurant, Christen's enthusiasm and smile was contagious. The loss of someone so young, talented and with so much ahead of her is beyond comprehension. However, we also offer a prayer of thanksgiving for her beautiful life. Our deepest condolences.
Debbie and David Austin
Vicki Fowlkes
#67
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Words just can't say how heartbroken this news made me.
I'm so sorry. Christen had bloomed so beautifully after going to work and developing her path at Frankes and meeting Daniel.. love to all of you! Praying for understanding everyday
Of this tragedy. Karrol and I had seen her at Frankes West just a couple months ago and got to visit a bit. So happy for that time.
Norman Jones
#66
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Aubrey Nixon
#65
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Aubrey
Paula Smith
#64
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My condolences to the Franke family. My late mother-in-law. Marie Smith, was the bakery manager years ago and I have heard many stories about your family. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family during this time.
Karen Clark
#63
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
So, Sorry to hear of the Loss of Chris, really nice person and cheerful. May God Bless and keep Both Families.

Customer Downtown area
Jimmy and Linda Collins
#62
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Carolyn and Bill, we are so, so heartbroken. We send our love, prayers and support to you and your family as you cope with the loss of Christen.
Mary Ann Holt
#61
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Bad news travels far and fast. It's been many years since we were both raising little girls and shared tips. Fond memories. I just want you to know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Reading people's messages make it very clear that you, Carolyn did a wonderful job raising your beautiful, fabulous daughter Christine. May she rested peacefully in the arms of the angels.
Sarah W Stringer
#60
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Christen was always so joyful when we saw her at Franke's, always so kind to our kiddos. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Franke family.

Sarah Stringer
Lynsey Mitchell
#59
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I'm so sad to hear about Christen. I went to Governor's School with her and always was amazed at how big and bright her star was. She brought so much light and power to everything. I hope you know how much love everyone has for her. I'm so sorry to all of you who loved her most.

Robert Bumpas
#58
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I am so sorry for the loss to the wonderful Franke family.Christen was always great to see and you always hoped to see her when dining and say hello.
Latonya Brown
#57
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sadden to hear of your passing; I was just there this summer and I popped by the restaurant to say hi, to my Central High classmate, but I missed you; really wishing I would have returned the next day.
Donna Rideout Faulkner
#56
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
To: Franke Family:
I was saddened today to see the note on the door as my daughter and I went in to eat. That was a big shock to hear about Kristen. She will be terribly missed as she had that infectious smile and the friendly heart of greeting people. My dad, the late Richard Rideout, would always ask Mrs. Franke, "How is Kristen"? He adored her. She would always take the time to talk to him when she walked by where we were sitting. Our prayers and sympathy is with the Franke family.

Hugs and Prayers,
Donna Faulkner and family
Ashley shields Carson
#55
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Words can't express how sorry I am for your loss, your family is in our prayers.
The Stanleys - Jim, James & Audrey
#54
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
OOOOOOOh how we had grown to adore your splendid Christen. All the Franke clan - and the endeared Cafeteria Staff - have long made it a delicious joy to dine at your bountiful table. If we calculated the Franke-meals over the past decades as compared with lunches eaten with our own far-away-clan, you would understand why we too ache at the end of this precious life. We may not have said the words, but we would hope through our actions, you knew our household - like countless other families - think of all at Franke's as 'part of our own.'

Always remember, in woeful times, the glowing answer is 'FAITH' -- 'FAITH in JESUS THE CHRIST & THE LIVING GOD;' Therefore, please know without reservation - this darling Daughter is beyond The Pearly Gates and within the magnificent glory of Paradise. Today, precious Christen is lovingly cradled in the arms of THE ALMIGHTY.
Mark Prewit
#53
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Like everyone I'm stunned and saddened by Christen's passing. I am also grateful for the opportunity to get to know such a warm, vibrant young woman, full of grace and spirit. She was the neighbor everyone would love to have. She will be greatly missed.
Judy McKellips Smith
#52
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Christen brought so much joy to my dad, Lawrence. They would kid all the time when we were at the restaurant, his favorite place to go. She was saddened to hear he wouldn't be able to come back after he became ill in July. I still picked his food up for him and she asked about him every time. I'm sure my dad welcomed Christen with one of his big hugs as she walked through heavens gate. My sincere sympathy.
Taylor Hawley
#51
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
So sorry for your loss. I know Mom and Dad would be the same.
larry Graham
#50
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My thoughts are with the Franke family. I did not know Christen, but grew up with many of the Franke family as a child.

My condolences to Bill and Carolyn over the loss as well as to all of the Franke family.
Don and June
#49
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We are so sad!! What a beautiful lady... inside and out. God bless her and family.
David Rowe
#48
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Bill and Carolyn there are no words sufficient right now. Please know that i cherish the fact that i knew her from when all our kids went to sunday school together watching her become one of the finest managers in the food service industry. Please know that the Rowe family and the Coleman Dairy family are with you and love you! David.
Cindy and Murray Harding
#47
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We just had a call from Linda Collins telling us about Christen's passing. Bill and Carolyn our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anne Davis Wolfean
#46
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Franke and Kitchens families. Christen was such a wonderful person, and I am blessed to have known her since elementary school at PA through our days at Central. She was so full of life, and I will always have wonderful memories of her.
Beckie Sudduth
#45
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
crushing news, my heart hurts for every member of this beloved family. Know my prayers are with you all. Each of you are precious to our family. we love you ---Scott and Beckie Sudduth
Montine McNulty
#44
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
The entire hospitality industry will mourn the loss of Christen. Bill and Carolyn, we grieve for you and your family. We are so sorry and send our love and our deepest condolences.
John and Rachel Batson
#43
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
So sorry for this loss. She was a vibrant girl and a wonderful friend. She has been a part of my families life for over twenty years and we will miss her so very much. Our thoughts and prayers are, and forever will be your family.
Bill and Cathy Ferguson
#42
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We were so saddened to hear about Christen's passing through Mildred. We pray that God will wrap your family in His loving arms and comfort you in this sad time. Please know you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kristin Binz Schumacher
#41
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I'm so sorry for your family! All I can think about is out days at PA & then at Central. My family ate at Franke's often & I always saw your smiling face while working hard. We would always try & catch up on each other's lives but it was always so busy. You truly were an amazing person & friend & you will be missed forever!!
MaryKate Paige
#40
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
The Franke family was a big part of my soccer childhood and teenage years. I'm so saddened and shocked by Christen's passing. I could always count on Christen to liven up the mood when things got stressful and count on her hair whenever my mom got onto me about mine (haha). Christen was an incredible person inside and out. She will be missed and I will continue to pray for your family through this time of grief. Love you, guys!
Fatima J McKindra
#39
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
If we appear in Heaven as we appear here on Earth there is one thing I know-You will have the COOLEST hair of all the angels my friend...my sincere condolences to all of Christen's loved ones. The Little Rock Central High family of angel has grown by one. She will always live through those of us left behind.
Elizabeth Spann
#38
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
To the Franke family and Christakos family, along with countless friends, I am so so sorry for your loss. Christen loved life and everyone around her more than anyone I have ever seen. She was genuine, hard-working, and so incredibly kind. To know Franke was to love her- she had the most electric personality and an infectious laugh. Daniel, thank you for loving our girl. You made her so happy. To the Franke family, Christen was an amazing friend and amazing person. To the Franke's Cafeteria family- I know her dedication and genuine spirit will be missed.
Franke, you have forever changed us. You will be missed.
Jeff Sharp
#37
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
May the Lord be with you Bill, Carolyn and family. I want you to know your in my thoughts and pray that you will find strength and comfort somehow. Christen was a beautiful lady inside and out. I have found memories of the girls when they were small and Christen being so sweet. God Bless... Jeff
Shirley Nichols
#36
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I am so sorry to hear of Christen's passing. Please know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Tammy welch
#35
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I'm still in shock such a beautiful angel gone way too soon.the moment I sat down for our first conversation I knew you had wings and a sorrowing glowing spirit.christen had such an infectious laugh.she has always took great care of my mom Carolyn j heard.I felt has if you were the sister I never had,rip christen I asked my sweet angel grandparents in heaven to look out for you.
Pat Dubin
#34
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I am so sorry for all of Christens friends and family. My deepest condolences and prayers.
Pauline & Van Christakos
#33
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our sincere condolences to Daniel and the Franke family. A beautiful person inside and out and was taken way too soon.
Katy Bartlett
#32
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I have many fond memories of sleep overs at the Franke house and Saturday soccer games with Christen and the Franke family. Her larger than life personality will be missed by many. To Kathryn, Bill and Carolyn I am so sorry for your loss. Your family has always been special to me.
Charles Robbins
#31
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I'm so saddened by this news! My prayers and condolences go out to Christen's family. Christen is truly one of a kind and she will be sorely missed.

Sincerely,
Nadine Grice and Connie McCall
#30
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Carolyn: Mother and I were so sad to learn of Christen's passing. We will miss seeing her smiling face at Franke's Restaurant on Sundays after Church.
Lee Ann Hogue
#29
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My thoughts and prayers are with the Franke's. May God comfort you in the days ahead. How blessed you were to have raised such a fine young woman. She was beautiful,smart,
hard working,kind, and just an all around neat girl. It was a pleasure serving her at the bank. We are truly going to miss her!
Queene Hippolyte
#28
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I met Franke years ago out one night after moving to Little Rock. We were immediately drawn to eachother & exchanged positive vibes. I would randomly see her out and about and of course at the Restaraunt. She always intrigued me and had an electric pulse about her...a cosmic soul...so to speak. You will truly be missed and I'm praying for your peaceful return to the Universe and praying for your family & many friends during this time of loss. Rest in peace & Love Franke! 💜
Anntionete McNutt Morgan
#27
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I would like extend my deepest condolences to the Frankie family. It seems like just yesterday I saw Christen and we got to reminisce on our soccer days together. She was a beautiful flower during our soccer days and was one the very last time our paths crossed. This is heart breaking. My prayers are with your family.
Lesa Thomas & Charles Lincoln
#26
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Lesa and I would like to express our deepest condolences to Carolyn, Bill, Kathryn, Daniel and the entire Franke family.

Christen was special- our many memories of her vibrant spirit will never be forgotten and we will miss her!
Kristi May Gunster
#25
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I am devastated to hear this news. Christen was one of my first friends. I have so many wonderful memories of her larger-than-life personality, countless hours of playing together, trips down/up the Arkansas River, "12 Days of Christmas." I haven't seen her in years, but my dad has always updated me on her when he would run into her at Franke's. Carolyn, Bill and Kathryn, I am so very sorry for this enormous loss.
Amanda L. Paige
#24
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Christen was a very special girl who grew up into an incredible young woman. My sympathy and prayers to the Franke family.
J Dyke & Garry Mertins
#23
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Heartbroken. We loved the time we had while Franke worked at our store and the years after. Such a sweet and fun soul.
Jacob Cockcroft
#22
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Christen was my cousin, a year behind me in school. We went to the same high school and college, and more importantly, she was the only other person I know with the middle name "Cazort." That's something I couldn't say about anyone else, and it bonded us in a strange way that is hard to explain. She was full of life and I will miss her, like so many others.
Jalonda Brown
#21
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My prayers go out to Mr and Mrs. Franke. This is a great surprise to me . I'm still in disbelieve about Christen. I am goimg to truly miss her dearly. I have great time working with Christen. Many blessings to each and everyone of yall.
Tom Paige
#20
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Carolyn, Bill and Kathryn, I was very saddened to learn of Christen's passing. Christen's drive, determination and energy was always special to me as a player and young woman. This has left me was a deep sense of loss. All of you are special people to me and are in my thoughts and prayers. Christen, the world is diminished by your passing.
vanessa couch
#19
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I am so saddened by this tragic loss. She was such a wonderful person that always had a smile on her face. I will be keeping your family in my prayers. If you need anything, I am always here.
Benjamin Purvis
#18
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
What a loss. Franke was always so full of life and it was infectious. We will miss that mane, smile, laugh, and voice. I'm so very sorry for your loss.
Greg Daniels
#17
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My sincere sympathy to the Franke family in this untimely loss. May you be comforted by the love of our Heavenly Father.
Lora Smith
#16
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sorry for your loss my condolences for her family Bill Franke for the Lost of Christian she was my boss for 8 months I really care and love her my last words to her was I love you and I think that you are a extraordinary Boss.
Carroll walls
#15
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sry for the loss to the Franke family. Loved seeing christen's smiley face at Franke's almost every Sunday working. Seeing her grow up from high schooler baby siting my kids to very successful woman of the business world. Plus all she gave back to charity's.
The Walls family prayers and love.
John Garrett
#14
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sorry to hear this sad news. She will be missed by many! Prayers for Christian and family
Becky and Smitty Burgess
#13
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time. (Customers of Franke's restaurants.)
Alicia Morrison Whitmer
#12
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
You are all in my families thoughts and prayers during this sad time. I'm so very sorry for your loss. May God wrap is loving arms around you and give you peace. RIP beautiful Christen!
Kelley Vogelgesang
#11
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Christen Franke was one of the biggest personalities I have ever known. When I think of her I will always see her singing and dancing. She was hard working, loving, funny, and beautiful. Inside and out. I was lucky to have her in my life. I am so glad we were friends. I have so many stories that involve her and I will cherish them always. I wish we had longer. I'm so sorry for the Franke family, her fiance, Daniel, her co-workers at Franke's, and her many many friends. There will never be another like her.
Blair Wallace & The Wallace's
#10
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We are so saddened by this news. She was full of life and joy. Our prayers go out to the entire Franke family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Trena Mitchell
#9
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My sincere condolences to the Franke family! I will always remember Christen's beautiful smile and lovely voice in Mrs. Holidays drama class at Central.
Su-Lauren Wilson
#8
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Franke, I've known you since one of the first days of 10th grade. That hair, that smile. Living together in Fayetteville made for some pretty amazing times. Laughing and crying and belting out Tori Amos and singing our hearts out. I love you so much. Thanks for always checking in on me. Yours, Su-Lauren Wilson
Brian and Beth Prasse
#7
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We are terribly sorry for your loss.
Chandle Carpenter'
#6
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I'm so sorry for your loss. Franke was in book club with me and had such s beautiful soul. She loved life and all it had to offer. You are in my prayers and thoughts.
Cassandra McGee
#5
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to her family and friends. I will forever remember her smile and all that beautiful hair. Rest Easy Christen you will forever be in our hearts.
Maria and Christopher christakos
#4
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
So sorry for your loss can't believe this happened. She was so young and ready to start a new life soon. She will be missed a lot. Condolences to the family. Love Maria and Christopher Christakos
Darlene Baker
#3
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My condolences to all the Franke family both at home and at the restaurants. Her loss is felt deeply by all who were blessed to have had her in their lives. She is sorely missed.
May she Rest In Peace and leave us with fond memories.
Angela Parker
#2
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Christen's passing. I looked forward to seeing her in Franke's and loved seeing her so happy when she was having dinner with her fiance. She was so kind and so sweet. She saw me out late one night walking the dog and stopped to make sure I was all right. I am so very sorry for your loss and will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Angela
Bunten Family
#1
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our thoughts are with you and we are here for anything you need right next door. Christine was an angel to us and the best friend and neighbor you could possibly ask for....Daniel...we are here for you at any time.

The Bunten Family

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