Frances “Franki” or “Fran” Kay Ridenbaugh, 69, of Windham, OH, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. She was born March 15, 1956, in Ravenna, OH, to the late Harold and Virginia (nee Hatchett) Appleton.
Her family moved to Windham, where she met Richard, who was her high school sweetheart and later became her husband. Their family grew to four when their son and daughter were born. Franki always had a deep love of animals that started during her childhood on the family farm. She was active in 4-H and enjoyed raising and showing farm animals. Later, Franki became a veterinary assistant and managed a kennel. She loved creating a loving home environment for her family, pets (who were like children), and especially her grandchildren. Franki enjoyed gardening in the spring and summer and had a talent for making things grow. She was the cornerstone of the family and would always drop everything to help someone (person or animal) in need. Franki took great joy in simply being with Zoe, her faithful canine companion, who truly knew unconditional love. She had the best sense of humor and could make anyone laugh even in the most difficult situations.
Franki will be missed by her loving husband, Richard Ridenbaugh, Sr., who was blessed to share over 50 years of marriage; children, Richard (Cheryl) Ridenbaugh, Jr. and Shannon (Chad Karr) Ridenbaugh; grandchildren, Theodore, Gracie “Tuttie”, and Evan; sisters, Patricia (Frank) Harmon, and Karen (Bruce) Greene, in addition to many nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and twin grandsons, Andrew and Zachary Ridenbaugh.
Per Frankie’s wishes, she is to be cremated. Services for Frankie are private and were entrusted to Mallory-DeHaven-Carlson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 8382 Center St., Garrettsville, OH 44231.
For remembrances, donations would be accepted by Portage County APL, https://portageapl.org/donate/, or the ASPCA, https://secure.aspca.org/donate/ps-gn-p2?ms=, in her name, to honor her lifelong love of animals. For online condolences go to www.carlsonfuneralhomes.com.
