Leader of Mainz night-fasting movement, Karl Heinz Franko, passes away at 96; seagulls at Lake Constance reported to be mourning his death
Remembering Karl Heinz Franko: A Pillar of Mainz's Culture, Community, and Sports
Karl Heinz Franko, a beloved figure in Mainz, passed away on July 31, 2025, at the age of 96. His life and contributions have left a lasting impact on the city, touching various aspects of its cultural, professional, and sports scenes.
Franko's involvement in Mainz's Fastnacht (Carnival) tradition was significant. He was a founding figure of the festivities, playing an essential role in promoting and shaping the local Carnival customs. His passion and commitment were evident in his work organizing and supporting events that celebrated this key cultural festival.
Professionally, Franko was an accomplished figure in the printing and graphic arts industry. His expertise and work significantly impacted the local business scene in Mainz.
In the realm of sports, Franko was a founding member and active participant in the 1. Mainzer Minigolf-Club (MGC). He contributed to establishing and promoting miniature golf as a sport and leisure activity in Mainz, helping to build the club into a recognized organization. His greatest achievement was persuading the city of Mainz to build a minigolf course in Hartenberg park in 1975.
Franko's contributions extended to the cultural and social fabric of Mainz as well. He was a member of the Mainz Carnival Club (MCC) since 1947, serving as the symbolic "Till" on the carnival stage for four years in the 1950s. Over the years, he held various positions within the MCC, including head of protocol, vice-president, and a member of the committee. Franko was also a mentor to many young narrators in the MCC.
In recognition of his long-standing dedication, the MCC honoured Franko for 75 years of membership in 2021. The MCC also awarded him the Golden Pegasus Ring, the "dancing fool", and the porcelain Till, symbolic honours bestowed upon those who have made significant contributions to Mainz's Carnival.
MCC chairman Norbert Kramer wrote that his thoughts are with Franko's wife Toni and children. A commentator on MCC's Facebook post wrote that Franko's name was a familiar one since their childhood and was among the carnival greats. Comments and expressions of sympathy for Franko can be found on MCC's Facebook page.
In addition to his roles within the MCC and MGC, Franko was deputy director of the Mainz archives. His legacy encompasses cultural, professional, and sporting domains, highlighting his diverse influence on Mainz’s social and community life.
The obituary for Karl Heinz Franko can be found on the MGC's website, offering a more comprehensive look at his life and achievements. As we remember Franko, let us honour his memory by continuing to celebrate and uphold the traditions he so passionately championed.
In the heart of Mainz's cultural scene, Karl Heinz Franko's contributions extended beyond just sports and community activities. He was also deeply involved in entertainment, particularly the city's Fastnacht tradition, where he served as a symbolic "Till" on the carnival stage and was a mentor to many young narrators.
Remembering Franko, we are reminded of his association with celebrities in the world of Mainz's Carnival, a fitting testament to his wide-ranging impact on the city's culture and community.
