Franz Fleckenstein

Franz Guenther Fleckenstein passed away peacefully on December 6, 2024, in Baton Rouge, LA, following a brief illness. He was 86 years old. 

Born in Dietz, Germany, to Emma and Fritz Fleckenstein, Franz's early life was shaped by the challenges of post-World War II Europe. His resilient side emerged early as he learned how to provide for his family by salvaging scrap materials from the war tattered buildings. As a teenager, he pursued boxing where he excelled in the sport. He also discovered his lifelong passion for dancing, winning numerous local competitions, and was even invited to tour with Fats Domino as a backup dancer – an opportunity his parents declined. 

In 1960, at age 23, Franz embarked on a bold journey by pursuing his father's dream by immigrating to the United States. He arrived with his wife Anita Tefarikis and their 18-month-old daughter Marion, initially settled in Childress, TX. The family later moved to Fort Worth, TX where their second daughter Patricia was born in October 1961, before finally settling in Baton Rouge, LA, where Franz was recruited by Moran Printing Company for his block printing expertise.

Franz's entrepreneurial spirit led him through a diverse career path, from gas station attendant, newspaper typesetter to National Life insurance agent, jewelry distributor, and floral shop owner. In his "retirement" years, he launched a parking lot striping business serving the greater Baton Rouge area.

A man of many passions, Franz loved to cook and was best known for his authentic German dishes. Lord forbids if anyone were to compare a purchased or handmade cheesecake to his sister Lilo’s home baked German cheesecake. After Lilo’s passing his fiancée Dorothy mastered Lilo’s recipe and the bragging rights.

He was a dedicated soccer enthusiast. He coached boys’ youth and women's teams to championship victories. This included the Valkyries women's team, where his daughter Patty played, winning State. 

His love for motorcycles manifested in his prized 1996 Harley Davidson and later, a 2008 Honda Gold Wing Trike, which he used for both pleasure rides and cross-country adventures. He was also an avid boater, piloting his beloved cigarette-style boat "WHAATEVER" through the waterways of Louisiana. Be it a day of pleasure cruising, a poker run, or the “beginning of” or “end of” summer bash out in Lake Maurepas. Franz was always enjoying and living his best life.

Franz was preceded in death by his parents Emma and Fritz Fleckenstein, and siblings Fritz, Maria, Ilse, Lilo, and Gerhart. He is survived by his loving daughters Marion Fleckenstein Beyl (Tommy) and Patricia Fleckenstein; his devoted fiancée Dorothy Schoeffler-Chauser; brother Klaus Fleckenstein of Frankfurt, Germany; grandsons Ian Chauvin of Atlanta, Georgia, and Sean Chauvin of Center, TX; nieces and nephews Uschi, Susie, Uwe, Claus, Sondra, Florian, Max, Sascha, Ashley, Natalie, Julia and Colby; and his faithful German Shepherd, “Lonnie."

In accordance with Franz's wishes, he will be cremated, and his ashes will be scattered across Lake Maurepas by family and close friends. A celebration of life will be hosted by his "night-life family" at his favorite dancing spot, Club Coozan's of Baton Rouge, LA, with details to be announced via social media.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Our Lady of the Lake Hospital and the Carpenter House Hospice facility for their wonderful care of Franz in his final days. The staff provided compassionate care during the family’s most difficult time.