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Floor Speech

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Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the distinguished career and life of LaMarr Franklin. Mr. Franklin was born in 1945 in Milwaukee and passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 80. Mr. Franklin was a pillar of the Milwaukee community and left an enduring legacy that will continue to shape the city and the lives of its residents for years to come. He was known for dedicating his life to uplifting the city's youth and African-American community.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Mr. Franklin attended Messmer High School before being drafted at 21 into the Army during the Vietnam war, where he earned the rank of sergeant. Following his military service, he returned home and attended Roosevelt University in Chicago, earning a bachelor of science in sociology before beginning a successful career in corporate sales. After many fruitful years, he retired as vice president of sales at Computec Integrated Solutions, Inc.

Mr. Franklin talents were not only in sales but in his remarkable ability to lift up those around him. Throughout his career, he was highly regarded for his contributions and service to his community, earning commendations at the Federal, State, and local levels.

In 1973, Mr. Franklin founded the Milwaukee Chapter of the Black Achievers Program at the YMCA, which expanded college and career exploration opportunities for the city's youth. He also played a pivotal role in launching the Martin Luther King Economic Development Corporation, which focused on expanding affordable housing and commercial facilities throughout the historic King Drive corridor for nearly 30 years. Additionally, he served numerous State and community boards, including more than 40 years of service on the board of the Northcott Neighborhood House, as well as the LaVarnway Boys and Girls Club Scholarship Board.

As board president of the Northcott Neighborhood House, Mr. Franklin spearheaded some of Milwaukee's most significant cultural milestones, including one of the Nation's largest Juneteenth celebrations and the beloved Garfield Days. Through his leadership on the Boys and Girls Club Booster Club and Scholarship Board, he opened doors for thousands of young people, many of whom have since ascended to prominent leadership roles spanning government and industry.

Beyond these many exceptional accomplishments, even in retirement, Mr. Franklin's commitment to mentorship never faded. He continued to tutor students in Milwaukee schools and, alongside lifelong friends, cofounded The Breakfast Club M.K.E. This 500-member organization provides a vital social space for African-American men and community leaders to foster youth engagement. To this day, the group continues his mission, meeting every second Friday at the Family Table Restaurant on Brown Deer Road.

In honoring Mr. Franklin's truly indelible mark on the great city of Milwaukee, his name officially became part of the city with the dedication of the LaMarr Franklin Lofts in October 2025. The building now remains as a true testament to the towering legacy which he left behind. Throughout his work, he built--both literally and metaphorically--the scaffolding to support our coming generations' successes.

Mr. Franklin's life was nothing short of remarkable. As a visionary leader, changemaker, and tireless advocate, the impacts of his dedication to Milwaukee's youth and African-American community will continue to be felt for generations to come. While we mourn his passing, I am honored to join our community in celebrating a life defined by service. We recognize his extraordinary contributions not only to Milwaukee and the State of Wisconsin but to the Nation as a whole.

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