Bay Marine founder Francis “Fran” Felhofer passed away in September at the age of 91. Fran was well-known not only as an entrepreneur and community leader but as a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.
Fran’s entrepreneurial mindset transformed Bay Marine from the Cherryland service station his father started into a thriving marine enterprise, now led by sons Matt and Mark. His inspired vision, unending passion and remarkable work ethic still resonate in the continued success of Bay Marine.
“Dad was our true patriarch, in business and at home. He started his own business in the 1960s, it survived the 1970s gas crunch, the 1980s recession, the 1990s luxury tax, the 2008 recession and a global pandemic. All while raising a family of five children, and putting each one of them through college. That makes him the most impressive person I will ever know. I truly believe that my father might be the smartest person I will ever know,” says Mark Felhofer.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fran’s name to the Door County YMCA or the Door County Maritime Museum.
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