Gilbert J. Francis

Gilbert J. “Ozzie” Francis passed away peacefully on Feb. 25, 2020, after a short stay at Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center in Rochester. Born on Dec. 11, 1934, he lived and worked in this area his whole life.

Besides his family, he loved the freedom of his sailboat, as well as writing poetry and short stories. From an early age, he enjoyed the challenge of tearing apart and rebuilding almost anything that had a motor. This love of machinery led him to create his own excavating/trenching business. He enjoyed the world of vintage cars, British racing cars in particular. Ozzie was passionate about music, books and reading, a deep love that he passed down to his children. He was a huge supporter of Albion Purple Eagle football and a fan of the New York Giants. He loved spending his time outdoors, and his favorite place to be was Lake Ontario. Ozzie was a good man who cared about social injustice, animals and the environment. It was natural for him to lend a helping hand to those in need. He delighted in the social aspect of coffee with friends, telling tall tales, and engaging in deep discussions. Ozzie was a member of the Albion Fire Department, the Albion Fireflies Drill Team, the Elks B.P.O.E. #1006, the U.S. Naval Reserves and the American Legion, and he was a member of the Legion’s Clown Band. Ozzie will be remembered as a very caring man with a ready smile who extended the hand of friendship to all.

He was predeceased by his parents, Gilbert J. Francis Sr. and Loraine (Howard) Francis; infant sister, Peggy Ann; sister, Betty F. Robinson; and son-in-law, Michael A. Guarino.

He is survived by his children, Terry (Michael) Vick, Drew (Brittany Vasta), Carol (James Iademarco) Guarino, Nancy Jane (James Manley) Francis, Julie (Michael) Kappos, Alissa (Jason) Welch, Trevor (Maria), and Tyler (Brianna Schnurr); 16 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; loving companion, Michelle Watt; dear cousins, Mary Jane Parker and Carol Rowcliffe; and several special nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Fri., March 13 from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14441, where a memorial service will be held on Sat., March 14 at 11 a.m.

Memorial contributions in Ozzie’s name may be made to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Road, Albion NY 14411.

To share a special memory of Ozzie, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.