Francis Elmer Overholt

On June 4, 2024, Francis Elmer Overholt, age 91, passed away at his home, surrounded by his family. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Helen (Green) Overholt for 71 years before her passing in 2022. Francis was the Father of 4, Grandfather of 11, and Great-Grandpa of 10.

He was born on September 16, 1932, to the late Elmer and Odessa (Law) Overholt in Fresno, Ohio. He served 4 years in the U. S. Air Force and then returned home to West Lafayette to raise his family.

Francis loved to dance, kicking up his heels wherever music was played. His dimple always peeked out when he was being ornery or teasing people. He loved his horses, German Shepherds, golfing, fishing, hunting, bowling, running heavy equipment, supporting the Ridgewood Generals and helping friends and neighbors.

He was employed by Jones Metal for 21 years and Columbus and Southern/AEP for 21 years, where he retired in 1994. He operated his own excavating business for many years, working all over Coshocton County and surrounding areas. Francis was a member of the Moose for 47 years, life member of the AMVETS and a Mason for 40 years.

He is survived by his four children, Steve (Marla) Overholt of Perrysburg, OH, Tina (Tim) Okel of Trafford, PA, Dave (Jody) Overholt of Granville, OH and Linda (Mike) Ondayko of West Lafayette, OH; ten grandchildren, Brittany Overholt, Justin Overholt, Travis (Ashley) Okel, Tyler (Allie) Okel, Tiffany (Liz) Thayer, Chasity (Kate) Overholt, Tori (Meghan) Overholt, Michael (Adrianna) Ondayko, Brandon (Hilary) Ondayko and Sean Ondayko; ten great-grandchildren, Jadyn, Tucker, Colton, Sawyer, Jackson, Claire, Levi, Odessa, Luna and Isla; two sisters-in-law, Marilyn Prater of McArther, OH and Betty Overholt of New Philadelphia, OH; two nieces, a nephew and dear family friend and neighbor, Barb Powell.

Along with his parents and wife, Helen, Francis is preceded in death by his brothers, Clifford and Robert and granddaughter, Angela Overholt.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Given-Dawson-Paisley Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm with Rev. Larry Stitt officiating. Burial will follow at Fairfield Cemetery with the Coshocton County Veterans Honor Guard performing military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Francis and Helen Overholt Scholarship, payable to: Ridgewood Local Schools, 301 South Oak St., West Lafayette, Ohio 43845.

An online memorial can be viewed at www.given-dawson-paisleyfh.com.