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Stephen J. Franta of Medina, Minn., former owner of Canvas Craft, passed away Sept. 15, 2025, after battling cancer. He was 84.
Stephen started Canvas Craft in 1988 as a one-man marine canvas shop, and in 2004, his son, Max, joined the business, who is now the company’s president.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Katherine, and his brothers, Herbert Jr. and Frank.
Stephen is survived by his wife, Jeane, and their two daughters, Calli Franta (James) and Ashley Franta (Shane). He is also survived by his first wife, Kathryn (Herbeck) Franta, and their four children: Stephanie Scerbak, Christine Carrier (Greg), Matthew Franta (Melissa) and Nancy Mir (Tamas). In addition to 15 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and his brother, David Franta (Laura).