Christen Franke of Franke’s Cafeteria passed away last Sunday, December 4th at age 37. It’s an incredible loss on so many levels and my thoughts go out to her entire family.
I was fortunate enough to work with Christen on several occasions through my coverage of the food industry. Whether it was for an interview on the radio or a picture for a story or randomly texting her about menu items, Christen was always so sweet and kind.
She also never shied away from being completely honest … like the first time we met, when I attempted to order a Veggie Plate from her while in line at the Franke’s in WLR.
Christen wasn’t having any of that.
She told me I needed to eat more than just a veggie plate. And so I did. I ordered the chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, and cabbage, gobbled up the dish, and formally introduced myself. We quickly became friends.
I still try to hit up Franke’s for lunch about once a month, and I still love that Veggie Plate. But also I adore everything about the restaurant, including getting to say hello to Christen, who was either behind the counter or walking around the dining room welcoming the guests.
I was at Franke’s last Thursday, but Christen wasn’t there. It would have been nice to say hello to her.
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The last time I was in Little Rock I visited with Christen and she made sure her old soccer coach didn’t leave without being fed. She was a wonderful young woman and I feel her loss greatly.
How did she pass? What happened?
This is so sad. What a loss.
No official cause of death. Found in her home Sunday after her bachelorette party the night before. She had waited for the right man so long…
We were neighbors and I used to babysit her. I haven’t lived in Little Rock in years, but I am so sad to hear this. Peace to her and Blessings to her family.
N. A’Yara Stein
nee Jamie Simpson
(Dr Dixon’s daughter from up the road on Rivercrest)
I offer my condolences to the Franke family. I did not know Christen, but have known the Franke family since I was a child.
I am so sorry over the loss.
Larry
Although it was a short time and a great time I will never forget you. You were a friend and addition to our family. Rest in peace Christen. DJ loved you to the moon and back. My condolences to the Franke family and the Christakos family. Love you and always will
My family has been dining at Franke’s for decades. I introduced my children to Franke’s .They tradition continued as their children like dining there as well.
It seems that it was about 3 weeks ago, we dined at Franke’s. I remember seeing Christine working hard to replenish the food on the line.
I am so sorry for her family. I pray for comfort for the family.
I noticed that she was not there this week as she always was in the past. The service was slower than when she was running the place. She will be missed.
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