Francis, G. F. “Deacon” 1826 - 1914

FRANCIS

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 10/21/2024 at 11:12:08

Source: Decorah Republican Aug. 20, 1914, P3 C3

OBITUARY.
G. F. Francis, or “Deacon” as he has been known to several generations of Decorians, died on Monday morning last at the county home at Freeport where he was removed some months ago. As far as is known he had but one living relative, a granddaughter. The most reliable information hat we can secure is to the effect that he was born near Watertown, N. Y., and was about eighty-eight years of age. He came to Winneshiek county in the late fifties and engaged in merchandising at Freeport. After the county seat was definitely located at Decorah he moved his store here Old settlers remember him as an active factor in various enterprises. He was particularly identified with the packing house that flourished for a brief time in an early day, when he was considered ont{sic} of Decorah’s substantial citizens. Probably no other man did more in his day to build up our city. We have heard it said that he built more residences than any other individual. Unwise investment proved his financial downfall, illness and other misfortunes were visited upon his family, and one by one they passed away, leaving the “Deacon” alone in the world his competence spent and he a charge upon old friends. For a long time he was cared for in a home he had saved from the wreck, but eventually this was lost also and he was taken to Freeport where he has been given the best of care by Steward C. A. Funke and wife. Old acquaintances who remembered Mr. Francis in the days of his prosperity saw to it that in death he ws honored by a Christian burial. Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon at two o’clock at the Congregational church, Rev. M. Willett officiating, and interment was made in Phelps cemetery by the side of his loved ones who are sleeping there.

Transcriber’s Note: Find a Grave shows he was born in 1826 and died Aug. 17, 1914.

Phelps Cemetery
 

Winneshiek Obituaries maintained by Jeff Getchell.
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