It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother, friend, and terrific human being, Wesley Joseph Franken. He left this world in the early hours of May 10, 2023.

Wes gave his all while remaining positive, in spite of his progressive neurological disease of four years.

Wes was born in Santa Barbara on April 3, 1992, being the first born to Joe and Kimberlee Franken. Wes attended Canalino School in Carpinteria; Mt. Carmel School in Montecitio; Pond Road Middle School in Robbinsville, New Jersey; and graduated from Robbinsville High School in Robbinsville, New Jersey.

In high school, Wes was enrolled for four years in the JrROTC Air Force program. After high school, Wes served as a volunteer firefighter for Robbinsville Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Wes graduated from Delaware Valley University with a degree in landscape contracting. He then returned to California with his 1958 CJ5 Jeep and began working at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden.

The name Wesley means, “peaceful meadow” and “meadow in the West.”

Wes became a Master Mason at Carpinteria Lodge #444 in 2016, working his way through the chairs of Masonry, until his condition prevented his participation.

An enthusiast of classic cars, photography, and gardening, Wes enjoyed country music and classic rock. Wes will be missed immensely by all who knew him.

Wes is survived by his parents Joe and Kimberlee Franken; and sister Riley Rose Franken; as well as many friends and family on both the East and West coasts.

His family thanks Cottage Hospital staff and Cottage Rehab staff for their excellent care and motivation.

Services will be private, with a Celebration of Life in the near future. Memorials in Wesley’s name can be directed to Santa Barbara Botanic Garden.

When having a good craft beer, please raise a glass to remember Wes, a new heavenly angel, now looking over all of us. Cheers!