Stephen R. Francis

FRANCIS, Stephen R. "Steve"
Portage, Michigan Steve died Saturday, September 20, 2008, in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born October 16, 1948, in Brazil, IN, to Melvin L. and Phyllis J. Francis. Steve enlisted in the US Army in 1968 and was a proud member of Co A, 1st Bn, 503rd Inf, 173rd Airborne -The Herd - and served in Vietnam from January through November of 1970. Steve worked for General Motors in their plants in Kalamazoo, MI, Bowling Green, KY, and Lansing, MI retiring in 2006 after 30 years of service. On March 9, 1984, Steve and Sharon Hoover, who survives, were united in marriage. Also surviving are: six children, Ami Jerry Jones of Vicksburg, Dara Belk of Battle Creek, Jamie Emily Francis of Portage, Dyan Francis of Battle Creek, Derek Francis of Battle Creek and Paul Francis of Portage; seven grandchildren, Lacy, Erika, Haley, Rylee, Dominic, Dylan and Jacob; parents, Melvin and Phyllis Francis of Naples, FL; a sister, Romelle Tom Briggs of Gahanna, OH; and several nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 2-5pm on Sunday, September 28, 2008, at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Ave. A graveside service with military honors will be held 10:00 Monday morning, September 29, 2008, in Fort Custer National Cemetery. Those wishing to attend the service should be in the cemetery cortege area by 9:50 Monday morning. The family has designated the V.F.W. National Home for Children for memorial contributions. www.langelands.com 269-343-1508