William J. Franklin Sr, age 66, died on Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at Ascension St Claire's Hospital.  He was born November 16, 1954 in, Wausau Wisconsin, the son of the late James and Jean(McCabe) Franklin. He married Sarah Baumann on May 30, 1998 in Wausau, Wisconsin.  William worked for Metro Ride for 35 years up until his retirement 2012. He also drove for Badger State Tours until 2016.  He is survived by his wife Sarah of 23 years; one daughter Divine(Jeremy) Buck;. Wausau, 4 sons, William(Tara) Franklin Jr, Rothschild, Travis(Tiffany) Franklin, Chippewa, Jordan Franklin, Rothschild, and Jonathan Franklin, Schofield; 10 grandchildren, Hunter Buck, Kyleigh Buck, Alexis Buck, Zackary Franklin, MacKenzie Franklin, Madelyn Franklin, Maleyah Franklin, Bailey Schroeder, Kayleb Vickery, and Baby Franklin on the way. William is further survived by his siblings, Mark(Laura) Franklin, Fort Myers, Florida, Cheryl Steder, Wausau, Sister-in-law Diane Franklin Wausau.  And many nephews, nieces, and cousins.  William was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Alan Franklin.  A Memorial Service will be held at 11 am on Friday, August 27, 2021 at John J Buettgen Funeral Home in Schofield with visitation  from 9am - 11 am.  John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at HonorOne.com