Franklin R. Verduga

Franklin “Don Franklin” “Papá” R. Verduga, age 83, of Grove City, Ohio, passed away on March 12, 2026. Born on July 1, 1942, in Guayaquil, Ecuador, to the late Diogenes and Laura Verduga, he spent his early years surrounded by family and friends who adored him. As a young man, he loved playing the guitar, spending time with those he cared about, and enjoying life with his many friends. Known for his charm, warm personality, light green eyes, and combed-back hair, he was often described as a “ladies’ man.” To his family, however, he was the favorite son, the favorite brother, and affectionately known as “the king” of the family.

In 1974, he left his family in Ecuador and immigrated to Brooklyn, New York, where he met the love of his life, Geoconda, and her two infant daughters, Vilma and Ana. Together they built a family. While living in New York, he worked many jobs, most notably as a taxicab driver, and enjoyed simple pleasures such as sharing a beer with friends, working on cars, and spending time with those around him.

In 1991, Franklin moved with his children—daughters Ana and Vilma, and sons Moises and Josh—to Ohio. There he began a long and dedicated career at the Embassy Suites Hotel, where he worked for thirty years. He took great pride in his work and became known for his reliability, kindness, and unmatched work ethic. He earned Employee of the Year so many times that the hotel eventually stopped awarding it to him; instead, he was nominated for and proudly received the Ohio Hotel & Lodging Association Associate of the Year honor in 2001, presented by then-Mayor Michael B. Coleman of Columbus.

After retiring, Franklin devoted himself fully to his family. He loved visiting his daughter Vilma’s home for family dinners and was completely devoted to his granddaughter Sofia when she was little, carrying her everywhere. He was always fixing things, building gadgets, cleaning, and making everything just right, prompting his family to jokingly call him their “Butler.” No accomplishment in his family was too small for him to celebrate; he would frame it, tell his friends, and cheer for them all, especially boasting about his granddaughter Rosie’s strength in wrestling.

Franklin had a heart that knew no hatred. He loved deeply and openly, and anyone who met him quickly became a friend. He was everyone’s favorite uncle, grandfather, brother, and friend. He shared a special daily bond with his beloved sister Rosa, who called him often to check in. Known for his extreme American patriotism and love of country, he left a legacy of joy, warmth, generosity, and unwavering love.

He is lovingly survived by his children, Moises (Angelica) Verduga, Vilma (Victor) Espinoza, Ana (Edariz) Castilla, Josh (Diana) Verduga, Franklin A. Verduga, Lorena Verduga, Jorge Verduga, and Aldo Verduga; siblings Rosa, Lupe, Leti, Ana, and Antonio; grandchildren Denise, Tatiana, Elijah, Myles, Anthony, Claire, Cholito, Rosie, Jonathan, and Sofia; great-grandchildren Arya and Ace; many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He will be deeply missed.