October 27, 2024 | By RacinBoys

U.S. 36 Raceway owner Mike Franks passes away

OSBORN, Mo. — The RacinBoys are saddened to learn the news of the passing of U.S. 36 Raceway founder and owner Mike Franks.  Franks, 61, had been battling cancer and died early Saturday morning at Liberty Hospital. A service celebrating Mike's life will be held at 3:30 PM, Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, at the Gallatin First Christian Church.  The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 PM, Friday, the evening prior, also at the church. Friends may sign the register book from 9 AM to 4 PM, Friday at the funeral home.

Mike was a great guy and his contributions to the Kansas City area drag racing and dirt track racing were histoiric and long lasting.   He will be missed.  

Our sympathies go out to Mike's family and many friends at this most difficult time.


MICHAEL E. FRANKS 1963-2024

Michael E. Franks - age 61 of Cameron, MO passed away Saturday morning, October 26, 2024, at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, MO. Mike was born on April 27, 1963, the son of Sidney and Helen (Hershberger) Franks in Cameron, MO. He grew up in Gallatin and Jameson and was a 1981 graduate of Jameson High school.  Mike obtained a bachelor's degree from Missouri Western in agricultural business. On August 15th, 1987, he was united in marriage to Carla Burkhead in Bethany, MO and to this union a son, Vince was born. He worked for the St. Joseph News-Press and sold cars at Red X in Cameron. In his early years he enjoyed riding horses and roping. Mike had a love for all things racing and in 1990 he opened US 36 Raceway, which became a well known dragstrip and dirt track. Mike lived and breathed racing; it defined him. He was fortunate to make a career out of something he loved. On November 25th, 2008, he was united in marriage to Ruth Luckenbill in Plattsburg, MO. Mike and Ruth enjoyed trout fishing and boating in Branson, as well as chasing any adrenaline rush they could find on their trips to Florida, including every roller coaster Mike discovered. Over the years Mike made countless friendships; he had a nickname for everyone.  Mike’s dad once said, “Mike may not be the richest person in the world, but when it comes to friends and family, he is the richest person I know.” Mike will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Ruth of the home; children, Vince Franks (Hannah) of Cameron, MO, Tony Snook (Ashley) of Monument, CO, and Andrea Snook of Cameron, MO; grandchildren, Paisley, Maverick, and Ferris; brother, Jerry Franks (Kathy) of Kearney, MO; nephew, Chris Franks (Shelly) of Osborn, MO; niece. Kristie Hiles (Josh) of Kearney, MO; great-nephews, Blane and Blake and great-niece, Charlotte; many extended family members and countless friends also survive.

A service celebrating Mike's life will be held at 3:30 PM, Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, at the Gallatin First Christian Church.  The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 PM, Friday, the evening prior, also at the church. Friends may sign the register book from 9 AM to 4 PM, Friday at the funeral home. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Gallatin (660) 663-2117. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com