Ernest W.   Franck

Ernest W. Franck, 94, husband of the late Emily F. Franck, formerly of Taunton Lake Drive, Newtown, died June 13, in Salem, Ore. Mr Franck had lived in Newtown from 1958 to 1999.

Mr Franck was born and raised in Paterson, N.J. From early beginnings as a ham radio operator, he went on to become a well-known figure in the sound recording field. He worked for Bell Labs, Columbia Phonograph, Reeves Sound Studios, Harvard Film Service, Audio Devices, and Reeves Soundcraft Corporation.

During his career, Mr Franck was on the cutting edge of audio production. He contributed to the transition from mechanical to electronic sound on phonograph records, synchronization of sound and picture in the movie industry, and dubbing alternate languages on film. He also helped make it possible through multiple soundtracks to amplify sound in different parts of the theater for stereophonic sound. In 1954 Reeves Soundcraft was awarded an Oscar for this contribution to the first Cinerama production. This was accomplished by the team of capable and creative innovators collected and inspired by Mr Franck.

In his spare time, he invented (and patented) a recording device for a prototype of one of the first talking dolls. His family was often amazed at his ability to solve problems in unique ways. Family and friends will remember his wonderful sense of humor, punctuated with puns and witticisms, his willingness to help, his wisdom, and his fierce independence. If he had a fault it was his unwillingness to ask for help.

He spent many happy moments figuring out scientific solutions to numerous little perplexities. And right up until the end he amused the household with his humor. He remained gentle and humorous even when he needed total care. He has been consistently polite, cheerful, optimistic, and patient. Ernest Franck was a joy to be around and enlightened everyone with his charming characteristics. He will be missed. He was loved by all whose lives he touched.

Mr Franck is survived by two daughters, Sarah E. Franck of Salem, Ore., and Emily F. Hoon of Gainesville, Fla.; and by one grandson and four granddaughters.

A Memorial Service was held in Salem, Ore. Burial took place in Newtown Village Cemetery.

The Newtown Bee         June 28, 2002