Jennifer Lynn Franklin, 48

Jennifer Lynn Franklin, 48, passed away in Kalispell, Feb. 26, 2018.

She was born Jan. 2, 1970, and raised in Bigfork. At a very early age, it was apparent that Jennifer’s love of animals would some day be more than just a hobby. From barrel racing with her horse Shamrock, to dog obedience classes and shows, she loved every second of it. That love blossomed into a career, and later, a co-ownership of K9 Kutz in Kalispell. Jennifer was known for having a “way” with animals. She wasn’t just a regular dog groomer, she seemed to understand them, each and every one of them in their own unique way, and they all loved her for it.

As much as Jennifer loved her four-legged friends, none of it compared to the joy of motherhood. Raising her daughter Jessica was, and is, her greatest accomplishment.

She is survived by her parents, John and Carmen Franklin of Bigfork, her daughter Jessica Olmsted of Kalispell, her brothers and sister, John Franklin, Christy (Franklin) Reines, and Joe Franklin, as well as her nieces and nephew, Ally, Zoey and McKale Franklin, and all the other people that she touched.

Jennifer had an indescribable presence, a sunshine-like quality, and such an easygoing personality. She had a way of bringing life and light into any situation. She loved everybody, it didn’t matter who you were, whether you walked on two legs, or four, her heart did not discriminate. The world will be a little bit darker now, but her light and love lives on in all of us lucky enough to call her a sister, a mother, a daughter, or a friend.

Please join us at 1 p.m. March 9 at the Buffalo Hill Funeral Home for a celebration of life.

Friends are encouraged to visit the website,www.buffalohillfh.com, to leave notes of condolence for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.