George H. Francis, PhD, 93, Professor Emeritus at Millersville University, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at his Manor Township home. He was the husband of Edna Francis for 57 years until her death in 2001 and Nancy L. Myers Francis, with whom he celebrated 15 years of marriage. He was born in Ishpeming, MI, son of the late Arthur and Helga Lindhom Francis. George served in the US Army and Air Corps in WWII and saw service in Germany, Belgium, Austria and France. He spent 14 months in the European Theater Operations as a radio operator and tech. George taught at the secondary level in Port Huron, MI, and later taught in Chicago Heights, IL and at Northern Michigan University at Marquette. He earned his doctorate at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1966. He joined Millersville University in 1963 as an Associate Professor of Industrial Arts, where he assisted in founding the first closed circuit television station at Millersville. While at the college, he also worked with three students to build a teaching tool for a physically disabled student. George was an avid Amateur Radio enthusiast and enjoyed attending and rummaging through “good junk” at area Hamfests.
Although he was a man of many accomplishments, his main goal was to provide his family with the best possible life. He was always ready to provide a helping hand to anyone who needed it. His humor was infectious, and he loved a practical joke, even when it was played on him.
Surviving in addition to his wife are his children: Karen Keiser, Manor Twp.; and Bruce, married to Carol, Austin, TX. Three grandchildren: Ruth Sadd (wife of Ron); Jodi Bencak (wife of Raymond); and Sara Bennett (wife of Wesley). Eight great-grandchildren and 12 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one grandson: Christopher Gardner and one great-great-grandson: Dawson Waite.
At George’s request, there will be no viewing or traditional service. The family will host an informal gathering honoring George at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on Saturday, February 17, 2018 from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to: the Central PA Food Bank, c/o Lancaster County Food Pantries, 3908 Corey Road, Harrisburg, PA 17109. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.
