Francis Carl Roush

Francis Carl Roush, 80 of Hartford, passed away suddenly Monday, Nov. 17, 2014. at home.

"Frenchy", as he was known by most, was born June 12, 1934, in Traverse City, the son of Wilson and Hazel (Strait) Roush, both of whom precede him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were his wife, Barbara; a son, Dennis Roush; five brothers: William, Donald, Alfred, Harry and Harold and a sister, Louise.

Francis retired from Gast Manufacturing after 25-plus years. In the late 50's and early 60's, he enjoyed pitching for various fast-pitch softball teams in the Benton Harbor area. Throughout his life he always enjoyed raising and training hunting dogs, from Beagles to Walkers.

Francis is survived by a son, Keith (Chris) Roush of Hartford; daughter, Diane Roush (Gary Walters) of Allegan and her children: Alexander (Nicole) Nee of Richfield, Minn., and Theresa Nee of Grand Rapids; Alexander's daughter, Nora Jean Nee of Richfield, Minn.; son, Brian (Stacey) Thornton of Lutz, Fla., and his children: Jessica, Jacob and Joey Thornton and son, Scott Thornton of Hartford; five brothers, Bob, Louie, Leonard, George and Floyd; three sisters: Esther, Helen and Jane and many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

As per Francis' wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Francis' name may be made to the Scleroderma Research Foundation. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.