William “Bill” Francis

William (Bill) Thomas Francis, passed away suddenly on Thursday January 30th, 2025 in his 70th year.

Much-loved Dad to Liz (Kevin), Allan (Claire) and Will (Holly), cherished Poppa Bill/Grandpa Bill to John & Katie, Lainey & Monroe, and Esmae & Beau. Beloved brother of Evelyn (Dan Fox), Lawrence (Cathy), Ken, Ruth (Dwight Angiers), Arlene (Mike Ryan), Bev, and close cousins Bob Ryan and Diane Farias. Predeceased by his parents James and Leslie (nee Barkwell), and sister Margaret. Uncle Billy will be missed by many nieces and nephews. Fondly remembered by Kathryn and the Batty family, as well as his many friends at Home Hardware.

Bill was very athletic and especially loved hockey, baseball and broomball, as well as hunting and fishing. An avid horse-puller and then judge and long-time member of the Central Canadian Horse Pulling Association, he was known for fairness and integrity. His enjoyment of Charolais cattle led to many road trips around the province to stop in and look. His willingness to lend a hand and strong work ethic was known to many and appreciated by all.

Bill loved nothing more than spending time with his grandkids and the antics they were up to and will be a sorely missed presence for them.

Visitation & Celebration of Life

Friends and family are invited to call at the COBOCONK COMMUNITY FUNERAL HOME  6644 Hwy. #35 Coboconk, Ontario (705) 454-3913 on Wednesday afternoon, February 5, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Private Graveside Service will be held at Pine Grove Cemetery, Norland. Friends, neighbours and relatives are invited to join the family at the ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BRANCH #519 Coboconk on Thursday afternoon, February 6, 2025, from 1-3 p.m. for a Celebration of Bill’s life. As an expression of sympathy, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or Sick Kids Foundation and would be appreciated by the family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William “Bill” Francis, please visit our floral store.