William Franklin "Frank" Protsman

William Franklin "Frank" Protsman, 77, of Keokuk, IA, passed away Monday, February 23rd 2026 at his home, surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born October 12th, 1948, in Keokuk, IA to William "Frank" Protsman Sr and June (Robinett) Protsman. Frank graduated from Keokuk Senior High School with the Class of 1967.

On June 23rd, 1968, Frank was united in marriage to Joyce Standley at First Baptist Church in Keokuk. For 57 years, Joyce has been Frank's devoted wife and his caregiver for the past 5 years when his health declined.

Frank was a 3rd generation railroader. He was employed as an engineer with BNSF Railroad for 40 years, retiring in 2008.

Frank was a true outdoorsman. He enjoyed spending time on the river his entire life, hunting, fishing and mushroom hunting. He loved sharing these adventures with his family and friends, especially teaching his first grandson Luke all his fishing and hunting secrets. He was an Iowa Hawkeye and St. Louis Cardinals fan, and was a big fan of Busch Light.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Protsman of Keokuk, two daughters, Stacey (Dave) Fincher of Keokuk and Brandy (Tony) Magray of Keokuk; grandsons Luke Magray of Keokuk, Zach (Lisa) Fincher of Hamilton, IL, Travis Fincher of Casper, WY, and Jordan Fincher of Wever, IA; granddaughter, Elizabeth Fincher of West Point, IA; and one special great-grandson, Wyatt. One brother, Danny "Boone" Protsman of Alexandria, MO, one sister-in-law, Marian (Lloyd) Karaff of Donnellson, IA; nephews and nieces and Marilyn Fincher of Keokuk, IA, who kept Frank well-stocked with his favorite sugar cookies.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Dennis in childhood and Jimmy in infancy; and one sister, Tina Smeltser; his in-laws, Dean and Lois Standley; two brothers-in-law, Jerry Standley and Dave Smeltser and nephew, James Karaff.

Per his wishes, there will be no formal visitation. A graveside service will be held at 11 am, Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Oakland Cemetery, Keokuk IA. A procession to the cemetery will leave the funeral home at 10:45 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service at The Crossing Church, 610 Timea St. in Keokuk. Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the family. All memorials will be donated to EasyStep Hospice of Mt Pleasant IA, The entire staff took amazing care of Frank and his family in his final weeks, true angels on earth. Memorials will also be donated to Keokuk Animal Services in Keokuk. Frank loved his "adopted" dog Bandit, he was his best buddy for the last 16 years.