Francis Eugene Tomkinson

Francis Eugene Tomkinson September 10, 1948 - August 13, 2009 Francis "Fran" E. Tomkinson, 60, of Battle Creek, passed away peacefully Thursday, August 13, 2009 at his home, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Flint, Michigan on September 10, 1948 to the late Paul L. and Lucille A. (Ozanich) Tomkinson. Fran graduated in 1967 from Pennfield High School. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. After receiving his honorable discharge, Fran was employed at the Federal Center in the roads and grounds department where he worked for over thirty years before his retirement in 2003. After retirement Fran worked for Calhoun County Medical Care Facility where he enjoyed driving the van for the daycare. He was married on December 02, 1970 in Battle Creek to Kathryn Mahoney. Fran loved spending time outdoors including hunting, fishing, camping and doing his yard work. He also enjoyed bowling and coaching little league baseball for generations. Fran also always looked forward to the family trips to Irons, Michigan. Fran is survived by his wife Kathryn Tomkinson of Battle Creek, a son Robert "Bob" (Sue) Tomkinson of Battle Creek, a daughter Tina Mahoney of Battle Creek, eight grandchildren; Brittany, Robert and Kyle Tomkinson, Justin and Zach Mahoney, Jon, Michael and Kayla Lower, one great-grandchild, two brothers Douglas Tomkinson of Allegan and Ted Paul Tomkinson of Battle Creek and a sister Cecelia (Dale) Mainstone of Battle Creek. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. with visitation one hour prior at New Hope Apostolic Church 13416 West Michigan Ave in Marshall, Michigan with Pastor Doug Fleury officiating. A private interment with military honors will be held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made in Fran's memory to Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice 166 E. Goodale, Battle Creek, Michigan 49037. Condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the family at www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles.