Fred W. Francies

Fred W. Francies, 99, passed away February 22, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, IN. He was born February 2, 1926, and was a native and lifetime resident of Fort Wayne, IN. Fred was the son of Charles and Mabel Francies.

Father, factory worker, farmer and friend to many, Fred’s drive was to be a great provider , of a home, of knowledge and of perseverance.

Fred hired into Zollner pistons at 17 years of age and stayed there for 44 years, in 1957, he added farming at the Noyer road residence to his repertoire.

His joys included hunting, ice fishing, bowling and gardening.

Fred was a member of the Moose Lodge and the American Legion.

He is survived by his children, Charles (Karen) Francies, Robert (Leslie) Francies, Ricky (Glenda Tunstall) Francies; stepchildren, Gary (Cheryl) Blessing, Diane Blessing, Cindy Wheeler; 17 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Fred was preceded in death by his 2nd wife, Thelma Mae Francies; daughter, Vicky Dietz; stepson, Bill Blessing; brothers, Harry, Jim, Floyd, and Russell Francies; and sisters, Marie Hitzman and Vera Sessler.

Funeral Service will be 3:00 pm Sunday, March 2, 2025, at D.O. McComb and Sons Funeral Homes - Covington Knolls, 8325 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, IN, with visitation two hours prior. Private burial at Riverview Cemetery, Churubusco, IN.