Submitted by: Mary Jo Koran

SBT - October 21, 2002

Robert B. Francis

July 30, 1926 - Oct. 18, 2002

Robert B. Francis, age 76, of Beech Road, Osceola, IN, passed away suddenly in his home at 8:40 a.m. Friday, October 18, 2002.

Mr. Francis retired from Elkhart Community Schools and the St. Joseph Valley Officials Association after many years.

Born July 30, 1926 in South Bend to the late James and Anna Francis, he has lived in this area all of his life. On March 19, 1955 in South Bend he married Gretchen Essig who survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Jennifer (Steve) Rhoads of Prescott Valley, AZ, Roberta (Don) Hyland of Sierra Vista, AZ; one son, Craig B. Francis of South Bend and three grandchildren; Kyle and Katherine Pronger of Prescott Valley AZ and Terrance (Komiko) Hyland (US Air Force) Elgin, FL.

One sister, Jean Holbrook, preceded in death.

Services will be held Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. in the New Apostolic Church, Osceola. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger. Friends may call on Monday from 4 - 8 p.m. at the Palmer Funeral Home 1109 Lincolnway West, Osceola, IN.

Robert was a World War II Army Veteran and a member of the New Apostolic Church, Osceola, where he was the choir director for many years. He officiated numerous sports at the high school level and coached this areas Special Olympics Basketball Team in the late 70's and early 80's and led them to the State Finals several years.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Donor's Charity of Choice or the New Apostolic Church c/o 10430 Snowy Owl, Granger, IN 46530.