William B. Franke

William Birrell Franke (April 15, 1894 – June 30, 1979) was an American businessman and government official. He was best known for his service as United States Secretary of the Navy from 1959 to 1961 under Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Biography Franke was born in Troy, New York, the son of William G. and Helena E. (Birrell) Franke. Naramore, Niles & Company of Rochester, New York and Touche, Nivin & Company of New York City. He maintained an office in Rutland, where he worked as an investment counselor .

Honors and awards In 1948, Franke received the honorary degree of Doctor of Science from the University of Louisville. In 1955, he received an honorary LL.D. from Pace College. He was awarded the Army's Patriotic Civilian Commendation, the Department of Defense's Distinguished Service Award, and the Medal of Freedom to recognize his work at the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy.

Family Franke married the former Bertha Irene Ready of Schenectady, New York, who pre-deceased him. They were the parents of three daughters, Phyllis, Anne, and Patricia.