Franklyn H. Berent

Franklyn H. Berent, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed retired
Tonawanda High School science teacher passed away peacefully on May 24, 2024
at the age of 88 at Niagara Hospice. His life was characterized by love, laughter,
and a deep passion for family, teaching, and science.
Born on April 12, 1936, Franklyn grew up in Lockport, where he developed a
strong work ethic from his parents, John and Jennie Berent, and six siblings, Cora
Berent, Maybelle Berent Anderson, Elmer Berent, Jean Berent Taylor, Harriet
Berent Horan, and John Berent.
After graduating from Lockport High School, he served in the National Guard for
several years while earning his Masters degree in Education at Buffalo State. That
is where he met the love of his life, Janet Larsen. Together they embarked on a
journey that would span over 65 years. Theirs was a partnership built on love,
trust, and mutual respect, and their bond grew stronger with each passing year.
Their love story was an inspiration to all who knew them, a testament to the
enduring power of love and commitment.
Franklyn was a pillar of strength and affection to his and Janet’s daughters, Susan
Rhoads (Dr. John Rhoads, deceased) and Deborah Cheskiewicz (Leonard
Cheskiewicz, Jr.), a loving father who continuously provided guidance and support
for them. He was also a constant source of encouragement and support to his
grandchildren, Amy Lawrence (Jason), Jonathan Rhoads (Yvette Oca de Montes),
Leonard Cheskiewicz III (Danielle), Ellyn Cheskiewicz (Willis Doerr) and Bryan
Cheskiewicz (Katie Jastrzab).
Professionally, he was a dedicated science educator at Tonawanda High School for
over 35 years. His sense of humor and kindness touched the hearts of students and
colleagues alike. He was also a man of many passions and talents. His workshop
was his sanctuary, where he crafted many exquisite pieces, sharing his work with
family and friends. His love of science extended beyond the classroom, as he
enjoyed astronomy, lapidary work, and fossil hunting in his free time.

Franklyn possessed a jovial spirit and was always delighting company with his
witty joke telling. In his younger days, his evenings were often spent playing
poker with his friends, and in his older years playing 9 Innings with his family.
We will miss our meticulous scorekeeper.
May he rest in eternal peace, knowing that he made the world a better place
through his warm presence and positive impact on those around him.
Visitation will be held at John O. Roth Funeral Home, located at 25 William Street,
Tonawanda, on Wednesday, May 29 th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A service to
honor and celebrate Franklyn’s life will immediately follow the visitation.
Burial will take place on Thursday, May 30 th at 11:15 am at Acacia Park Cemetery,
located at 4215 Tonawanda Creek Road, North Tonawanda. Following the burial,
a luncheon to share fond memories, Manhattans, and cigars will be held at Lodge
on the Green, located at 6020 Townline Road, Sanborn.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Niagara
Hospice, which provided Franklyn with extraordinary comfort and care.

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