Francis Finley

Francis Clifford Finley, 87, of Gnadenhutten, died Thursday, May 31, 2018 in Hennis Care Centre at Bolivar following a period of declining health.

A son of the late Clifford and Emma (Render) Finley, Francis was born April 30, 1931 at Mineral City, Ohio.

Francis graduated from Mineral City High School in 1949. He then entered the United States Army, serving from 1951 through 1953. During that time, he served during the Korean War and was stationed at Fort Richardson, Alaska.

During his younger years, Francis was employed as a plant manager at Independent Towel Company at New Philadelphia. He was later employed at Clarence Mining Company and eventually retired from Superior Tank & Trailer at Beach City.

Francis was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. Post #1445 at New Philadelphia. He was an active volunteer with the Post Color Guard, as well as with many other functions. He was also a member of the New Philadelphia Church of Christ.

He enjoyed cutting and splitting firewood and was always willing to lend a helping hand to others. Francis also enjoyed time chatting with friends over breakfast.

He is survived by his children, Shari (Dave) George, Rebecca (David) Graff and Mike (Lori) Finley all of New Philadelphia; his grandchildren, Tiffini (Michael) Gaskill, Adam Bair, Brandon (Chasta) Bair, Ryan Bair and Olivia Finley and his great-grandchildren, Madison, McKenna, Mycah, William and Reagan.

Francis was preceded in death by his companion of 24 years, Jean Miles; his parents; two sisters, Rose Weigand and Lucille McCully; and a brother, Wallace Pealey.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 3, 2018 from 2 to 5 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. In keeping with Francis’ wishes, cremation will follow visitation and a graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 23, 2018 at 11 AM in Mineral City Cemetery where military honors will be rendered.