Francis M. Dickens passed away peacefully Thursday morning at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jean Dickens, their two children Larry Dickens and Patti Gagnon, and his four grand-children, Amy Farwell, Joshua Gagnon, Hillary Ferrante and Lindsey Dickens. He also had five great grand-children, Samuel, Dustin, Riley, and Conor Farwell, and Taylor Ferrante. Francis was formerly Vice President of Mechanics Savings Bank. He was a WWII Veteran on the front lines of Italy and received a Purple Heart for his valor. He belonged to various Veterans Associations and was a long time Rotarian as well. Francis loved life, travel, music, and the times spent with his family. He will be greatly missed. Family and Friends are invited to call at Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira/Southport on Sunday February 21, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Elmira, at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers those wishing may make memorials to the American Heart Association, envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
A "Candle of Remembrance" may be left for the family in Obituaries at www.olthof.com.
Karen Keenan February 21, 2010Jean and family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. There are fond memories of Fran as a fellow Elmira Rotarian and of both of you when we "cruised" together.
Karen Keenan and Mike Bernd
Craig Hutchings February 23, 2010Jean,
Sorry to hear about Fran. We had many years of bowling and golf that I truly enjoyed. In fact Fran let me borrow his golf clubs to play in my very first Rotary golf tounament.