Donald Francois

Donald G. Francois

Age 71 of Braceville Township, passed away Monday afternoon December 12, 2011 at his home.

Born May 8, 1940 in Morris, Donald is a son of Naomi Rentz-Francois of Maine Township and the late Leonard Francois. Donald was raised and educated in the Coal City area and was a graduate of Coal City High School. On January 30, 1965, Donald married Diane Biros in Coal City, and she survives. Donald farmed his entire life in Braceville and Maine Townships and greatly enjoyed raising cattle. He will be remembered for his love of working in his shop, restoring antique tractors and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife Diane; two children: Darren (Kim) Francois and Darcie (Skeeter) Ehrman, both of Braceville Township; two grandchildren: Ryanne and Aubrey Ehrman; his mother Naomi Francois; sister Lois Dyer and brother Duane Francois, all of Maine Township; sister-in-law Cathy (Jim) Sterba and brothers-in-law: Butch (Marsha) Biros, Brian (Ann) Biros and Lucky Latham, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Donald was preceded in death by his father Leonard Francois; son Dean; sister Alice Grobstein; brother-in-law Ron Dyer and sister-in-law Steffie Latham.

Visitation will be held on Thursday December 15, 2011 between the hours of 4:00PM and 8:00PM at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway in Coal City. A private family burial will follow Friday in Braceville-Gardner Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Roy Namchick, John Namchick, Bernie Burla, Dennis Smith, Larry Smith and David Dyer.

Preferred memorials may be made to the family for the establishment of a scholarship in Donald's memory.

Friends may sign the online guest book or send private condolences to the family by logging onto: www.ReevesFuneral.com

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Coal City. (815/634-2125)