Donald F. Francis, age 84, died September 27, 2019.
Beloved husband of Barbara for 60 years this October 31st.
Dearest father of Michaline (James) VanOverbeke, Stephen (Suzanne) Francis, Susanna (Edgar) Cross, Julianna (Joseph) Rinke, Mary (Kevin) Sokacz, Donalle (Michael) Wojcik, Dawn (late Richard) Dutkiewicz and “Stepson” Kyle Johnson.
Proud grandfather of Nathaniel Rinke, James VanOverbeke, Stephen Francis, Sarah Libkie, Emily Thompson, Noelle DeFore, Stanley Francis, Karl Cross, Taylor Kent, Stephanie Doss, Christian Sokacz, Michael Palmateer, Madison Sokacz, Abbigail Dutkiewicz and Michaline Dutkiewicz. Great-grandfather of 13.
Dear brother of Carl (Kathleen) Francis, Christine (Joseph) Levack, Marcia (Robert) Deputat, Felix Burdo, Barbara (Wayne) Phipps, Matthew Burdo and Margaret (Dave) Cornwell. Also sadly missed by many nieces, nephews and countless dear friends.
Don started working as a Fireman for Michigan Central Railroad, then worked at the Stroh’s Brewery. Proud member of K of C and the American Polish Century Club. In 1960 he founded Butcher Boy Food Products, which is still thriving today but his true love was buffalo farming.
Visitation was held at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, Inc. (Shelby Township) 54880 VanDyke at 25 Mile Rd.
The funeral service was held at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church, 343 S. Main St., Romeo. Interment was held Thursday, October 3 at St. Thomas Aquinas Cemetery in Elmira, MI.
Donations to the American Heart Association are appreciated.
