Benjamin Joseph Francka, 89, of Springfield, MO died March 1, 2016 after a long illness. He was born in Boliver (Karlin), MO July 5, 1926 to Benjamin Joseph and Mary Ann (Stanek) Francka.

He is survived by his wife of almost 61 years Ruth, son Ben Francka (wife Rosie), daughters Jane Hadfield (husband Bill), Mary Thoele (husband Jim), Martha Phillips (husband Brian), and 9 grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Bernard Francka of Bolivar, and sisters Sophia Griesbaum and Elizabeth (Betty) Kressig of Springfield,

After receiving a Juris Doctor degree from St. Louis University School of Law, he was admitted to the Bar Association in 1951. He was employed at Miller & Fairman through 1954 and was Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Greene County (1955-1958). He started private practice in 1959, during which he also served as Special Assistant Attorney General of Missouri (1960-1964). He started labor relations work in 1961 and represented a number of labor unions in Southwest Missouri. He was also legal representative for the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau for over 25 years. His greatest joys were his family, gardening, and his farm (cattle). He loved the Catholic Church and was a 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.

A rosary will be held at 8:30 am on Saturday, March 5, 2016 at Immaculate Conception Parish, with a visitation to follow until the Funeral Mass at 10:00 am. Burial will follow in St. Wenceslaus Cemetery, Bolivar, MO. In lieu of flowers, please remember Ben in your prayers.