James Ashford Francis

James Ashford Francis, 82, of Van Wert, passed away at 4:08 PM on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at Vancrest of Van Wert. He was born on July 11, 1941, in Decatur, Indiana, to Bernard Wayne and Goldie (Baumgartner) Francis.

Jim is survived by a son, Andy (Monica) Francis; 5 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and many "bonus" grandchildren; a sister, Nancy (Jeff Kantner) Roop; a niece, Kathy (Jeff) Stachler; 2 nephews, Jason (Jessica) Francis and Bruce Francis; 3 great nieces, 2 great nephews, 2 great great nieces and 2 great great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Larry Francis.

Jim retired from the Ohio Department of Transportation, after many years of service, and had also previously worked for Sherburn Excavating for several years.

He was a United States Army veteran serving 2 tours in the Vietnam War.

Jim was a member of the Van Wert American Legion, Van Wert V.F.W. and the Van Wert Moose. He was also a lifetime member of First Baptist Church in Van Wert.

He cheered on the Michigan Wolverines while his brother, Larry, cheered on The Ohio State Buckeyes which was always quite the battle.

Jim was the best Orchard Tree greeter and he will greet all of you when you join him in heaven. A good soul left us, but he is at peace now. He was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory with John Rager, officiating. Military rites will follow in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point.

Visitation will be from 2:00-6:00 PM on Friday, August 11, 2023 at the funeral home.

To share in Jim's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S Washington Street, Van Wert, OH 45891.