Melvin Francis

Melvin E. Francis 91, passed away April 24, 2013 at the Groves in Independence, MO. Melvin was born on February 19, 1922 to Louis and Ada (Cox) Francis in Kansas City, MO. After graduating from Ft. Madison High School, he followed in his father’s footsteps going to work at the Santa Fe Railroad, where he became a welder. When the war broke out, Melvin enlisted in the Coast Guard. After 18 months of training in New York as a Radio Technician, Melvin was transferred to San Francisco. On his way to his new assignment, he stopped off in Warrensburg, MO to marry the only women who could make sparks fly. Genevieve Hougas. After his discharge from the service, Melvin and Gen made their home in Warrensburg where he attended Warrensburg Teachers College (now CMSU) on the GI Bill. Melvin graduated with a Bachelors degree in History. After graduation, Melvin took his growing family back to Ft. Madison Iowa, and returned to work for the railroad. After a total of 10 years with the railroad, Melvin went to work for Ross Manufacturing in the Research and Development department. Another 3 years went by before Melvin was able to live out his dream of becoming a full time minister with the Community of Christ Church. It was in this capacity that he stayed until his retirement in 1985. While with the church, Melvin had several assignments in both United States and Canada. Melvin enjoyed photography, camping, and the mountains. He was a gifted wood craftsman, making grandfather clocks, and dulcimers. Each piece was a one on a kind work of art. But Melvin’s greatest joy was helping others. Melvin is preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Genevieve, brothers Gerald and Kenneth, and a sister Maxine. Left to honor his memory are his daughter, Bonnie Avery and husband Kenneth of Canada, and son Ward Francis and wife Jeanne of Independence, 5 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. Also surviving is a brother Flip Francis, and a sister Margie Hunter. A memorial visitation will be held from 6-7:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 7:00 p.m. May 2, at the Groves Community Room in Independence, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family request contributions to Outreach International.