Francis J. "Fran" Walsh Obituary (1931 - 2015)

Francis J. Fran Walsh, 84, of Normal, passed away at 9:14 p.m., Monday, August 24, 2015 at his home.His graveside service will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 12, 2015 at St. Marys Cemetery, Bloomington with military rites accorded by the Bloomington-Normal American Legion Honor Guard. The Rev. Thomas Mizeur will officiate.In lieu of flowers or memorials, the presence of your friendship over the years has been sufficient.Fran was born June 5, 1931 in Bloomington, the son of Lawrence P. and Imelda M. Gunn Walsh. He married Pat Valind on February 5, 1955 in Bloomington. She survives.He is also survived by seven children, Timothy (Marcia) Walsh of Bloomington, Mary (Bruce) Cope of Stanford, Daniel Walsh of Bloomington, Matthew (Jill) Walsh of Bloomington, Susan (Marlon) Kelch of Normal, Douglas (Rhonda) Walsh of Gilbert, AZ and Thomas (Rhonda) Walsh of Normal; 23 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren; three sisters, Joannie Briman of Topeka, KS, Mary Lois (Gene) Kauffman of Normal, Ann Knapp of Normal; a sister-in-law, Jo Walsh of Hudson; and many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by a brother, Larry Walsh and a sister, Margie Veselak.Fran graduated from Trinity High School and served in the US Army during the Korean War. He was a printer for many years and had worked for Illinois Graphics and later headed the printing department at Champion Federal. After retirement, Fran drove a bus for Unit 5 School District until he was 80 years old.Fran was a member of St. Marys Church in Bloomington. He was an avid fisherman and a member of the National Rifle Association. Fran enjoyed spending time in his garage, referred to as the Dog House, but his greatest joy was his grandchildren and great grandchildren.