Francis was born in New York State and spent many childhood years on his grandparents’ farm. He attended Duke University for undergraduate studies. He received a Master of Divinity degree from Union Seminary, and then attended Stanford University where he received his M.A. and PhD in English. He was an English professor at Cornell University and then at Hope College for 30 years until he retired. He authored several books of poetry and was published in a variety of journals.
Francis enjoyed walking, playing classical guitar, writing hymns, watching old westerns on TV, gardening and observing farms and gardens.
He is survived by: his wife Janice Prins Steen Fike; brother Lloyd Fike; children Matthew Fike and Deborah (Paul) Brower, stepchildren Todd (Susan) Steen, Amy (Bob) Crow; brother-in-law, Dick (Donna) Prins; Granddaughter Sarah Brower and great-granddaughter Maryam Brower; step-grandchildren Sarah (Ryan) Schreiber, Peter (Anne) Steen, Olivia (Eric) Garvelink, Justin (Tae) Crow, Emily Crow, and 6 step-great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by: his first wife, Joan Fike, and sister, Pauline.
A memorial service in witness to the Resurrection for Francis will be held December 3, at 10:00 am at Hope Church in Holland, MI, where Francis had been a member since 1968. No visitation is planned; the burial will be private. Memorial contributions may be given to Hope College or Hope Church (Holland, MI) Endowment Fund.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lakeshorememorial.com for the Fike family.
