News Summary
The Detroit music scene mourns the loss of Stewart Francke, a revered singer-songwriter, who passed away at 66 due to complications from a stroke. Known for his heartfelt music and contributions to charitable causes, Francke’s legacy lives on through his impactful collaborations and commitment to supporting others. His death has left a significant void in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians, as the community reflects on his life and contributions.
Detroit – Stewart Francke, a beloved musician and influential figure in Detroit’s music community, passed away at the age of 66 on May 9 due to complications from a stroke he suffered in 2019. His loss has left a significant void in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike.
Born and raised in Saginaw, Francke later moved to Huntington Woods, often referring to Detroit as his adopted hometown. He enjoyed a music career spanning several decades as a singer-songwriter known for his unique blend of rock, soul, and folk. His music was noted for its emotional depth, resilience, and the representation of the Midwestern working-class experience.
Francke’s musical journey began at the young age of 19, when he was mentored by blues musician Bob “Boogie Bob” Baldori, a founding member of The Woolies. He later honed his craft while attending the University of Redlands in California and worked as a music journalist for various publications, including the Detroit Metro Times. Over his career, Francke released 12 critically acclaimed albums starting in 1995, earning multiple Detroit Music Awards and performing at major music festivals such as Arts, Beats & Eats.
Throughout his career, Francke collaborated with notable artists, including Bruce Springsteen, who provided backing vocals for his song “Summer Soldier (Holler If Ya Hear Me).” He also opened for prominent musicians like Eddie Money and Bob Seger, further solidifying his place in the music landscape.
Francke’s extensive knowledge of music and his warm nature endeared him to many in the industry. Friends and fellow musicians expressed admiration for his supportive attitude, particularly towards aspiring artists trying to establish their careers. He faced several health challenges throughout his life, including a diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia in 1998, which led him to undergo a bone marrow transplant at the age of 40. His ordeal inspired him to create the album “Swimming in Mercury” in 1999 and subsequently founded The Stewart Francke Leukemia Foundation, focusing on supporting minority patients and organizations such as the Karmanos Cancer Institute and the Children’s Leukemia Foundation. He was also involved in numerous benefit shows for cancer-related causes.
In 2023, a tribute concert was held to honor Francke’s contributions to the music community. Friends remarked on Francke’s generosity, not only in sharing his musical talents but also in extending friendship and support to those he met during his own health battles.
Francke is survived by his wife Julia, daughter Tess Francke Barrett, son G. Stewart III, sisters Martha Humphreys and Kit Francke-Reece, along with many nieces, nephews, and countless fans. He was preceded in death by his parents, G. Stewart and Kay Francke. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
Tributes poured in on social media, highlighting his impactful legacy in both music and charitable endeavors. Remembrances of the musician’s loving spirit and the mark he left on the lives he touched continue to resonate deeply within the community.
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Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Stewart Francke Dies at 66
- Wikipedia: Stewart Francke
- Fox 2 Detroit: Stewart Francke in Concert
- Google Search: Stewart Francke
- Detroit Free Press: Trinity Tribute Concert for Stewart Francke
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Stewart Francke
- Hour Detroit: Back from the Brink
- Google News: Stewart Francke Tribute
- Holland Sentinel: Detroit CEO Turns Whimsical Idea
