Robert J Francis

Robert J. “Bob” Francis, age 88, of Russia, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, September 25, 2011 at 4:05 PM at the Versailles Health Care Center, Versailles, Ohio. He was born on November 30, 1922 in Shelby County, Ohio, to the late Emanuel & Sophia (Voisard) Francis.

Bob retired in 1996 as a horse farmer. He was a member of the United States Air Force during WWII. He was a member of St. Remy Catholic Church, Darke County Horsemen’s Association as well as a Charter member of the Catholic War Veterans. Bob loved golfing, fishing and was involved with the Southeastern Guide Dogs.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife, Ruth E. Francis whom he married on February 6, 1947; brother, James Francis; infant brother, Robert J. Francis; sisters and brothers in law, Rosemary & Edward Lehman, Jane & Bernard Bruns, and Wayne Groff.

He is survived by his Seeing Eye Dog, Shadow; sister, Suzanne Groff of Russia, Ohio; sister in law, Doris Francis of Tipp City, Ohio; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a Mass of Christian Burial held on Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 10:30 AM at St. Remy Catholic Church, 108 West Main Street, Russia, Ohio, with Rev. Fr. Frank Amberger celebrant. Burial will follow in the St. Remy Church Cemetery, Russia, Ohio. Family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 from 4-8 PM and on Thursday from 9-10 AM at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home, Versailles, Ohio.

It is the wishes of the family that memorial contributions can be given to the Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc., 4210 77th Street East, Palmetto, Florida 34221 or to the Donor’s Choice. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.