GHENT–Donald F. Francis, 88, of Hudson, died Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at Whittier Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center.
Born on January 22, 1922 in Hudson, he was the son of the late Frank and Minnie (Clark) Francis.
He was a life long resident of Hudson.
His loving wife, Mary Frances Francis, and his brother, Elden Francis, died previously.
He graduated from Hudson High School and later served in the U.S, Navy during World War II aboard the USS Caperton and the USS Pavlic. The USS Pavlic was involved in the invasion of Si Pan and Okinawa in the Pacific Ocean Theater. It was the third ship to enter Tokyo Bay while escorting the USS Missouri, where the Peace Treaty to end WW II was signed on September 19, 1945. The ship was later stationed at Yokosuka Naval Base.
Mr. Francis worked for General Electric in the Large Motor and Generators Department for 39 1/2 years in Schenectady. He was a member of the Quarter Century Club, a member of the USS Pavlic Association (WW II Veteran), and a former member of Christ Church in Hudson.
He is survived by four sons, Walter (Debbie) of Babylon, L.I., William (Pamela) of Annapolis, Md. and Wayne and Warren, both of Hudson; one step-son, Edwin (Karen) Smith of East Rochester; and seven grandchildren, Kyle, Connor, Bridget, Emily, Julie, William, and Edwin, Jr.
Visiting hours are 6:30 to 8 p.m. today (Friday) at the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street, Hudson.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Burial will be in Cedar Park Cemetery in Hudson.