Gilbert J. Francis Jr.

Obituary of Gilbert J. Francis, Jr. Gilbert J. (Ozzie) Francis passed away peacefully after a short stay at the Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center in Rochester, on February 25, 2020. Born on December 11, 1934, he lived and worked in this area his whole life. Besides his family, he loved the freedom of his sailboat, 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 NY 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, The American Legion and was a member of their 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 pre-deceased by parents, Gilbert J. (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), 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. Family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. at 21 West Avenue, Albion, New York 14411, on Friday, March 13, 2020 from 1:00-3:00 pm and 6:00-8:00 pm where his Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2020 at 11:00 am. Memorial contributions in Ozzie’s name may be made to: PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion, NY 14411.