Donald was born the son of Frank and Marion Francis on February 2, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan. At age 17, he joined the military and served overseas for two separate tours during the Korean War. During a portion of the war, Donald was stationed in Japan and often spoke of enjoying the Japanese culture and learning some of of the language. Donald returned home and started work at the Cadillac Manufacturing plant while serving in the Army Reserves. He was called back to service in the U.S Army Air Corps Corps (which later was named the U.S. Air Force.) for another two-year tour. Following the war, Donald had a career as a quality inspector at Cadillac Motor Car.
Donald was very patriotic. He appreciated the autoworkers union and spoke of the many good things the union did for its’ members. Donald enjoyed ballroom dancing with his sweetheart Tina and rooting for the Lions.
Donald is survived by his daughter Rita Jozefaciuk (David Victor); grandchildren Matthew Jozefaciuk and Sarah; and sister Gloria Fromm (Mike); as well as many nieces and nephews. Donald was predeceased by his parents; brothers Arthur, Richard, and Gerald Francis; and sisters Patricia Grundner, Bernadine Beauchaine, and Delphine Banovic.
A graveside committal service will be held at Great Lakes National Cemetery on , located at 4200 Belford Road in Holly, Michigan. The date and time will be updated here soon.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Old Newsboys’ Goodfellow Fund of Detroit online at www.detroitgoodfellows.org.
