Francis E. "Frank" Karas

Francis E. "Frank" Karas Battle Creek Francis Edward "Frank" Karas died August 18, 2009 at Battle Creek Health System after a long illness. He had been a resident of The Laurels of Bedford since Jan. 2009. He was born in Gwiner, ND on March 24, 1920. Francis graduated from St. Philip High School in 1939 and served in the Marines from 1941-1945. He married Kathryne Watson in 1943, they divorced in 1968. Francis was active in the Knights of Columbus, especially the 4th Degree, holding various offices. He was a member of American Legion Post #298. He did work of many kinds, but the greatest portion of his life was spent as a house painter. Surviving is his daughter, Carole Karas of Gastonia, NC; brother, Ivan Karas, of Battle Creek, two sisters, Sister Josephine Karas I.H.M. of Monroe, MI; and Bernice Karas Griffin, of Benton Harbor, MI. Francis is also survived by three nephews, Charles Griffin, working in Iraq; John Griffin, of Coloma, MI; Timothy (Mindy) Griffin, of Kalamazoo as well as three nieces, Mary (Michael) Sears, of Benton Harbor, Elizabeth (Thomas) Kepp, of Naples, FL; and Teri (Craig) Orlando, of Benton Harbor. There are also several grandnieces and grandnephews and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Clara (Krenz) Karas and a sister, Sister Vivian Karas I.H.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. today August 22, 2009 at St. Jerome Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. John Tran, Rev. Fr. James Barrett, and Deacon Gary Wright officiating. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Knights of Columbus, I.H.M. Sisters of Monroe, or charity of one's choice.