Ami (Amneris) Franks
September 24, 1924 – April 22, 2026
Our beautiful mother, Ami (Amneris) Franks, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, in Salt Lake City, her home for the last 78 years. She lived a full and vibrant life, reaching the remarkable age of 101.
Early Life and Artistry
Ami was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on September 24, 1924, to Albert and Lucy Lorenzon. She grew up in Chestnut Hill, within a traditional, loving Italian family alongside her sister, Diva, and her brother, Richard.
After graduating from Germantown High School in 1942, Ami went to Peirce Business College to learn secretarial skills. She went to work as a secretary at the Philadelphia Navy Yard and then for a patent attorney in the suburbs of Chestnut Hill. However, her true calling was always the arts. A gifted painter in both oils and watercolors, Ami’s passion for beauty and creative expression is a legacy that literally surrounds her family today, with her cherished paintings adorning the walls of their homes.
A Life of Love and Conviction
In 1947, she met Herman Franks, the man who would capture her heart. Ami deeply admired Herman’s integrity and character, and the two were wed on September 25, 1948, in Philadelphia. Dad brought Mom back to Salt Lake City, where they made their home, built their lives, and raised their family.
She traveled with Herm throughout his baseball career, devotedly caring for their young family as his playing, coaching and managerial roles took them across the country and beyond. From the New York Giants, Santurce Crabbers in Puerto Rico, Magallanes Navigators in Caracas, Venezuela, San Francisco Giants, and Chicago Cubs.
Ami found great peace in nature. Like her father before her, she cherished her trees and spent countless hours gardening. Her favorite poem was Trees by Joyce Kilmer—a piece she could still recite by heart at 101.
Beyond her home, Ami was a woman of deep conviction. An activist for peace and a staunch opponent of war, she was guided by a profound belief in humanity and a relentless hope for a better world. Her life was a testament to kindness, beauty, and the power of making others feel truly valued.
Her Lasting Legacy
Above all, Ami adored her family. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her heart. She poured into them a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that will continue for generations.
Ami is survived by:
- Her children: Dan Franks (formerly married to Michele Franks), Herman Franks (Lauri), and Cyndy Wright (Michael).
- Her seven grandchildren: Janie Fuller (John), Michael Franks (Lizzy), David Wright (Angie), Lauren Wright, Rachel Franks, Aaron Wright (Leslie), and Danny Franks.
- Her six great-grandchildren: Eli, Selah, Ashton, Aiden, Chloe, and Max.
The family expresses their deepest gratitude to her caregiver of four years, Hazel Balken, the staff at The Ridge and the Canyon Home Care & Hospice staff, whose gentle care and support brought immense comfort to Ami and her loved ones in her final days. She will always be remembered not only for what she did, but for the elegance and grace she embodied each day and the kindness she brought to the world.
A private family celebration of life will be held.
