Richard Joseph Francis

Dick died peacefully at home surrounded by the love of his family on January 14, 2008 age 75 after battling leukemia and a rare disease that attacked his brain.

Beloved husband of Janet. Dear father of Maureen Francis (Dmitry Koublitsky) and the late Paul (Mary Veit). Cherished grandfather of Daniel Veit and Dido of Kateryna Koublitsky. Brother of Isabel Smith. Preceded in death by his parents Hugh and Isabel. Will be missed by many brothers and sisters in law, nieces and nephews.

Dick attended U of D High School, Xavier University and Wayne State School of Law. He served in the Army in Korea. After law school he became the General Counsel for Michigan Life Insurance Company. He was appointed by Governor William Milliken to serve as the Commissioner of the Financial Institutions Bureau, where he was instrumental in his work to stop red-lining and to promote electronic banking. He served on numerous corporate boards and government task forces. Most recently he sat on the board of directors for Sterling Bank and as a consultant to Royal Oak Community Credit Union. He was active at Holy Name Church and was a member of the Knights of Columbus and his Men's Fellowship group. Dick was an honorary member of Sigma Phi Epsilon, his late son Paul's fraternity, and of the Detroit Athletic Club. Ridgevale Rod and Gun Club held a lifelong importance to him.

Dick had two guiding passions in his life: his family and his faith. Nothing brought him greater joy than his two grandchildren and their parents. Even as his body failed him, one of the last things he lost was the joy that filled his eyes when Katya or Daniel entered the room. When his ability to speak failed him, he worked hard to tell his family members, "I Love You."

He enjoyed 43 years with Janet. They both devoted their lives to their children, Maureen and Paul. Dick was always extraordinarily proud of his children's accomplishments. Together, Dick and Janet loved to travel the back roads of Michigan, and enjoy quiet time sitting by the water. They shared a passion for gardening, and both delighted in the first flowers of spring, watching the evening primroses open and finding new flowers for the garden. At their longtime home on Lakeside, Dick was captivated by watching Quarton Lake. A good team, Dick liked being the "big picture" guy, while Janet tackled the details. They also relied on each other in times of great personal loss.

Dick lead a full and meaningful life. He was a philosopher who wanted to make deep connections with those he cared about. He often sought out those who were struggling, whether it be with matters of business, personal issues, or faith. He will also be remembered for his sense of humor, his love of politics, his compassion and his deep religious convictions. He was loved by many.

Family will receive friends at A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel) 32515 Woodward (btwn 13-14 Mile)Thursday 3-8pm. Scripture Service 7pm.

Memorial Mass Friday 11:00 am at Holy Name Church, 630 Harmon at Woodland, Birmingham. Visitation begins at church 10:30am.

Memorial tributes to Manresa Jesuit Retreat House, 1390 Quarton Rd., Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 or the Paul Francis Memorial Fund at The Baldwin Public Library, 300 Merrill St., Birmingham, MI 48009.