Alfred Herman Franz, 85, a longtime resident of Ledgewood, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Dover, Al was the youngest of three sons of Erich and Gertrude Franz. He grew up on Indian Lake, where his love of both athletics and the outdoors took root. A standout track and cross-country runner at Morris Hills High School, he also relished playing hockey on the frozen lake with his brothers and friends and shooting hoops whenever he could. Recognized early for his sharp mind through his school’s co-op program, Al was hired immediately out of high school by Picatinny Arsenal in Dover. While working there, he simultaneously attended Virginia Tech, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering. At Picatinny, he built a distinguished 43-year career. His work took him around the world, contributing to critical advancements in U.S. defense technology, and he and his team received special recognition in robotics-his team’s Inventory Robot even made an appearance on the History Channel.

Al inherited his deep appreciation for nature from his father, who immigrated to the United States from Dresden, Germany. Family vacations were often spent camping along the shores and islands of Lake George a tradition that became even more meaningful when the family purchased a lakefront cabin in Northwest Bay in 1958. Once established in his career, Al bought a neighboring lakefront cabin of his own, pouring his hands, hard work, and creativity into transforming it. With every board he replaced and every improvement he crafted himself, he shaped a beautiful retreat that complemented—rather than competed with—the natural beauty surrounding it. Over time, the cabin became a cherished gathering place for generations. There, he was happiest waterskiing across Northwest Bay, fishing from the dock, teaching his grandchildren to dive, or taking sunset boat rides with his beloved wife in search of loons—moments that defined his idea of a life well lived.

His love of skiing led him to join the Craigmeur Ski Club and later the Craigmeur Ski Lodge, opening doors to slopes across the United States and Europe. It was through this community that friends introduced him to Suellen Scanlan, a young teacher from Pompton Plains who shared his passion for the sport. They connected instantly and were married in 1972. After a short time in Lake Hopatcong, they settled in Ledgewood in 1975, where they raised their daughters, Helene and Erica. Al was a devoted and present father—his girls remember him as their most enthusiastic cheerleader and, quite possibly, the loudest voice on the sidelines. Together, he and Suellen instilled in them a strong commitment to education and a lasting foundation in their Catholic faith.

When grandchildren Vida, Jonah, and Isaac arrived, Al embraced grandfatherhood with the same steady love and dedication that had defined his fatherhood. It wasn’t long before he became lovingly known as their Papa—a name that reflected not just affection, but the deep bond they shared. He went to their concerts, games, and recitals, always offering quiet pride and encouragement. His unwavering presence created memories his grandchildren will carry with them forever.

Al’s generous spirit extended well beyond his family life. He spent many devoted many years of service to organizations that were meaningful to him. At Lake George, he served as President of the Lake George Seniors for eight years and as President of the Rock Cove Homeowners Association for several decades, helping to strengthen the community he loved so deeply. His passion for skiing and fellowship also led him to leadership roles with the Craigmeur Ski Club, where he served as President, and the Craigmeur Ski Lodge of West Rutland, Vermont, where he served as Treasurer. These positions reflected not only his organizational talents, but also the trust and admiration he earned from friends and neighbors throughout his life.

Al is lovingly survived by his wife, Suellen; his children, Helene Franz, and Erica Quintero and her husband Kevin; and his beloved grandchildren, Vida, Jonah and Isaac. He was predeceased by his brothers, Arthur & Erich.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Sunday from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and Monday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Scanlan’s Funeral Home, Pompton Plains, and on Tuesday from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at Davis & Hepplewhite Funeral Home, Succasunna. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Matthew the Apostle RC Church, Randolph. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Magnificat Church Cemetery, Kinnelon.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Al’s memory to the Lake George Land Conservancy, 4905 Lake Shore Drive, Bolton Landing, NY 12814 or to the Oncology & Hematology Specialists, 333 Rt. 46 Mountain Lakes, NJ would be greatly appreciated.

Al’s life was one of devotion, to family, to community, and to living each day with purpose, and his legacy will continue to guide those he leaves behind.