Franklin Arthur Gearing, lifelong resident of Canaan, NY passed away January 11, 2012 at home surrounded by his family. Franklin was born May 23, 1918 in Canaan and was the son of the late Arthur Franklin and Elsie Graser Gearing. He was a member of the Chatham High School class of 1935. He was a self employed electrician and plumber. Franklin enjoyed amateur (ham) Radio operating under the callsign WA2ULV, photography and he was a square dance caller. Franklin was an 80 year member and past Master of the East Chatham Grange #1066, A sixty plus year member, past chief and past president of the East Chatham Fire Co., Inc., the Town of Canaan Election Inspector for over 50 years, a member of the Town of Canaan ZBA in the 1960's and 1970's, a founding member of the Canaan Historical Society and a past president of the Mt. View Cemetery Association. He is survived by his sons Wayne F. Gearing (Doris) of East Chatham, Alan E. Gearing of East Chatham, William A Gearing of Troy, Grandsons Michael W. Gearing (Ami) and their children Andrew and Megan of Raleigh, NC, David A. Gearing (Mary) and their children Christianna and Brandon of East Chatham and granddaughter Sarah Gearing Barber (Ray) of Troy. Franklin was predeceased by his wife Jennie Berlt Gearing who passed in 1989 after 44 years of marriage. Family will receive friends Friday January 13, from 4 to 7 pm, at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham. We will gather Saturday at 9am to leave for the interment in the Mt. View Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the East Chatham Fire Co., Inc., 14 Frisbee Street, East Chatham, NY 12060 or to Community hospice at 14 Liberty Street, Catskill, NY 12414-1442. For directions or to send an online condolence visit www.frenchblasl.com