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Richard Francis Obituary


Richard M. Francis, C.P.D., cherished husband of Deborah; devoted father of Bianca and Amanda Kmic; beloved son of the late Jeanette and Eugene Francis. Visitation at Cooney Funeral Home, 3918 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago, from 12 to 9 p.m. Sunday. Funeral Monday, family and friends are asked to meet at St. Monica Church, 5136 N. Nottingham (Foster & Nottingham). Mass at 11 a.m. Interment private. Dedicated Police Officer. Member of F.O.P. Navy Veteran of Viet Nam. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Chicago Police Department Memorial Foundation, 1359 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, IL 60607 would be appreciated. For info, 773-588-5850.

www.cooneyfuneralhome.com

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Published by Chicago Tribune on Jul. 4, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Francis

Not sure what to say?





canella torres

July 10, 2008

To the Francis Family,
my deepest sympathies to you and your family during this difficult time. My husband Eddie Torres is a Chicago Police officer and works out of Belmont and Western and knew your husband well. Eddie could not say enough kind words about Richard. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Enza DeNora

July 10, 2008

Amanda & Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family.

Michelle Jancovic

July 10, 2008

To the Francis Family, Friends and Fellow Officers, I worked with Rick at the Union League Club in the early '80's. We shared many stories and laughs over the years; he always brightened my day. Though I lost touch with him, he held a special place in my heart; he was truely a man who left an imprint of kindness and humility. I mourn for him as though we just spoke yesterday. My heartfelt condolences.

Barbara Coffey

July 10, 2008

from the Mroz family, Deb we are all so sorry for yours and your familys loss, are thoughts and prayers are with you.

July 9, 2008

Family Of Rick Francis,

My deepest sympathy goes out to all of you.

My Prayers go out to you. Rick was a wonderful person as you know and will be missed.

Bless You.

Gil Elizondo 018th District(Retired)

Dawn Keller

July 9, 2008

Debbie, Bianca & Amanda

My heart felt sympathy goes out to you & your family. You are in my heart, thoughts & prayers.
Dawn (Frost) & Nikol Keller

Amanda Antol

July 8, 2008

No words can help ease your pain- but know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

God bless you and your family and God bless the Chicago Police.

Chicagoan

July 8, 2008

I did not know Ofc. Francis but I would like to offer my condolences to him and his family. I too am an Ofc. and appreciate the "old" timers on the job who have risked their lives for so many years! God bless Ofc. Francis and all of those who have sacraficed their lives for our safety!

July 8, 2008

My deepest and sincere sympathy goes out to the Francis Family at this very difficult time.
As I read the stories of Officer Francis, I can see that he was a wonderul man that loved his family,
friends, fellow officers and lifel
He served our Country and our
City and for this we are forever grateful.
A great man has left this earth, but he will live in the hearts and lives of so many.
His final farewell was beautiful-a
service that he was so deserving of.
Rest in Peace Officer Francis, rest in peace.

Paul Settepani

July 7, 2008

My condolences to your family at this sad time.I can remember Richard from Our Lady of Lourdes School and from Chase Park. He will be sadly missed.

Car Stevens

July 7, 2008

Debbie, Amanda & Bianca,

Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I feel so honored to have met your husband and stepfather! The world needs more people like Officer Francis. May you feel comforted knowing that his spirit shall be with you ALWAYS. God bless you!!

GALE WILLIAMS

July 7, 2008

my prayers go out to the family and the cpd this is a great loss for all of chicago . i want to thank officer Francis for a job well done and the devotion he gave to chicago
i'm sorry i did not know him personaly,but i have a lot of respect for him because of the fact he went to work every day to help people and protect us the citizens of this great city thank you so much god bless.

Dawn Andersen

July 7, 2008

I just wanted to offer my deepest condolences to the Francis Family and the Chicago Police Department Family during this most difficult time.

Rosemarie Giambalvo

July 7, 2008

My deepest sympathy to Officer Richard Francis' family. May your hearts and souls find comfort during this time of sadness. I am truly sorry for your loss. Frank will be missed.

CONNIE AND WALTER AND KATIE KELSO

July 7, 2008

my prayers go out to the family as well as the chicago police department we have loss a good man

Holly Boblink

July 7, 2008

My deepest sympathy and prayers are extended the family, friends and the CPD on the tragic loss of Officer Richard M. Francis. I live in a neighborhood with many Chicago Police as neighbors, and I am very grateful to have them as neighbors. Officer Francis' death has touched us deeply.

Sally (Heidkamp) McCarthy

July 7, 2008

Our prayers are with each of you at this time of loss.
His goodness will continue here while he celebrates eternally.

Sonja S.

July 7, 2008

As many others in this guest book, I did not personally know Ofc Francis, but I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family for their loss.

Phillip Young

July 7, 2008

I am sorry I could not attend the services.I worked with Rick for a number of years in the 18th Dist.He was always there for you,if it was just a joke or to back you up on a job on the street.He will be missed by the Dept. and his family.Phillip Young Retired 18th Dist.

Bob and Pat Rinka

July 7, 2008

Our thoughts & prayers are with the Francis Family during this most difficult time....

Mary Strobl

July 7, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Rich DeVitto, former CPD and current Federal Agent

July 7, 2008

May Officer Richard Francis rest in peace. He died doing what he loved and while protecting the citizens of Chicago and his nation. With my heartfelt condolences to his family and to the CPD.

Kevin Clements

July 7, 2008

Thank you Ofc Francis for your dedication to serve and help others. May you rest in peace in the arms of our Lord and Savior.

To the Francis Family and friends, a heartfelt hug to you all. His legacy will live on in the hearts of many. Peace to you all.

Roger & Cathy McGill

July 7, 2008

Another Great American Hero, both as a Vietnam Veteran and Outstanding Chicago Policeman.

Our Condolences to his family and friends. May the Good Lord Always hold him in the Palm of His Hands. You will all be in our prayer's.

I know your dog will miss you just as much as we will. Rest Now!

Dennis Eichler

July 6, 2008

Rest In Peace Richard. Although you did not make it to retirement, you touched so many other persons lives with your soul. God Bless you and your family.

Wes Chambers

July 6, 2008

i`d like to offer my condolences to Officer Francis`s family. i have a great respect for law enforement and the dangers they face each day. i would like to thank all those in law enforcement for their commitment and bravery in making it safe for the members of the communities they serve.

Michael & Sherry Gantwerker

July 6, 2008

Our family is very sorry for your loss.
The city will miss one of "Chicago's Finest".

G-d Bless your family.

Jesse Portillo

July 6, 2008

I never knew Ofc Francis, but I offer my sincerest condolences to his family and to his fellow officers for their loss.

Chris, Cindy and Cassi Fanella

July 6, 2008

We are so sorry for your loss. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you, and if you need anything please let us know. It is so sad that such a wonderful person has been taken from you and your family.

July 6, 2008

We didn't know Officer Francis but are grateful for his service to our city. We will pray for his family during this time of great loss.
With Deepest Sympathy,
A Grateful Chicago Family

M P

July 6, 2008

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Francis Family and the CPD Family.

Family Member of Several: CPD,(Retired)CFD,CSFP & PFD

July 6, 2008

To All the Family, Friends & CPD Family of Richard M. Francis,
No words could ease the pain that you all are going threw at this moment but I hope you find some comfort in knowing that so many are thinking of you.

John Connon

July 6, 2008

Rick you were always True Blue Brother.
RIP
John M. Connon, Retired

Marie Hegarty

July 6, 2008

To The Francis Family,
Rick was a great person who cared and watched out for the ones he was close to. I have known him since I was a kid and he always was there if something was needed. He will be greatly missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless
Marie Hegarty & the Hegarty Family

Natalie Terranova

July 6, 2008

I just wanted to say I'm very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to the entire family. He will always be in my prayers and in my heart. Rick was a great man, and the kindest person I've ever met. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to call on me. I love you all....

Janet Morgan

July 6, 2008

My condolences to the friends and family of Rick Francis - I knew him from the days at the "Bluebird" - many years ago, great man. I was deeply saddened to hear about this. God bless all our officers and keep them safe

Beth Heckenbach

July 6, 2008

I have heard many wonderful things about our brother. He had many friends and was greatly respected by the officers he served with. His ultimate sacrifice will be carried in our hearts and minds. I will keep him in my prayers.

The Hansen Family

July 6, 2008

To the Francis Family,
Our Condolences to all of you who are feeling such a deep void. God surely took his son home to early. May time, memories, family and friends help you through this very difficult time. Officer Francis will live on in you, his beloved family and he will live on in all the lives he has touched, and all the lessons he has taught. He made a difference. A grateful City will be indebted to him and you forever. A Great Police Officer and Great Man, he will always be remembered.

Michael Podraza

July 5, 2008

I did not know Officer Francis but would like to extend my condolences
to his family. I live in Edison Park and have many nice neighbors who are policemen and I know how sad I would be if one of them died in this manner.

FLEMING

July 5, 2008

I DID NOT KNOW THE OFFICER OR HIS FAMILY BUT WANTED TO TELL THEM HOW MUCH THEY WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS AND HOW SORRY I AM FOR THEIR LOSS.

Curt Troogstad

July 5, 2008

I had the privilege of working with Rick for several years before my retirement. During this time I was always completely confident that Rick had my back. He was an excellent partner and a great police officer. Rick was the guy you wanted to see if you called for assistance. My wife Karen and I would like to offer our deepest condolences to Debbie. Bianca and Amanda, the world is a lesser place with Rick gone.

Jan Hull

July 5, 2008

To the family of Officer Francis: While
I did not know Officer Francis, I wish
to extend my condolences and prayers to his wife and children (in-
cluding his two four legged ones). God has another special angel in heaven now and he will watch over you and the city he loved. God bless
you!

ES

July 5, 2008

To the Francis family,

I did not know Officer Francis, but my family lives in his district. Thank you for sharing him with our community. He was a great cop and a real hero - on the streets and in his own home. May you all find strength and comfort in his memories. God bless you all.

john nikopoulos

July 5, 2008

To the family of Officer Francis my deepest sympathy as a former 17yr veteran of the chicago police department.May he rest in peace with the gratest honors

linda otto

July 5, 2008

My prayers are with the Family and CPD. May Richard Rest in Peace.

July 5, 2008

My deepest sympathy goes out to the Francis Family and also the Chicago Police Department at this very difficult time.
A tragedy like this is very hard to understand-a senseless act that will change many lives forever!
A Hero may have Fallen and his life cut short, but this city is a better place because of his love and dedication and that will never be forgotten.
Rest in Peace Officer Francis-your job on this earth has been done and
God has now made you an angel in Heaven.

Mike Maines

July 4, 2008

A true COPS COP.

My deepest sympathy and tears
for the Francis family.
Some good laughs on the wagon for the few months I worked with Rich.

Theresa F

July 4, 2008

I wanted to offer my sympathy to the family and friends of Officer Francis. He was a very good friend to two of my uncles and a good cop.
May he rest in peace

Theresa

July 4, 2008

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Kari Silva

July 4, 2008

My heart breaks for Mr. Francis, and the loved ones he leaves behind. We all need to remember that everyday is a gift, and tomorrow is not promised. May the Lord bless and keep you,the Lord shine his face upon you all and bring you peace.
Sincerely, Kari Silva

July 4, 2008

I don't know the family but I wish to
extend my condolences to his family
and friends.May you rest in peace
sir.

Donna Marquez

July 4, 2008

To the family of Officer Richard Francis,

The Gold Star Families is a group consisting of family members of Chicago Police officers who have died in the line or performance of duty. Officer Richard was a true hero. All of us extend our hearts to you, not only during this difficult period but always. Words are inadequate in expressing our grief and concern, but know that we convey our love and support. Our thoughts are with you both now and forever.

With Care and Support,

Donna Marquez
Gold Star Family
President

sue

July 4, 2008

Well done good and faithful servant.

Janet Macri

July 4, 2008

My deepest sympathy. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers. His dedication and sevice to the city will never be forgotten and remember that he will always be with you.
Janet E Macri
Daughter of the late Ofc Frank Macri 32yrs of service

HAWKINS

July 4, 2008

Hi,

I do not know the family but wanted to give my condolences to your family for your loss.

Grant Sanders

July 4, 2008

My thoughts are with you!

Andi

July 4, 2008

To the Francis family,
May your heart and soul find comfort in this time of sadness. I'm truly sorry for your loss!

Natalie Earnhart

July 4, 2008

My deepest condolences to all family and friends. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

sgt w. gibson

July 4, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Retired Deputy Chief Richard Kobel

July 4, 2008

My condolences to the Francis family and to the men and women of the 025th District. The loss to the family and the Department is beyond my ability to put into words. Every unit in the Department has a core of officers that bosses and other officers relay upon. It is obvious to me that Rich was at the center of that core. Please know that I will keep Rich in my prayers as I know he is doing the same for all of you.

Patty Clarke

July 4, 2008

My deepest condolences to the Francis Family.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
May God keep you and Richard in the palm of His hand.
God Bless You,
Patty Clarke, Ret. C.P.D.
and Gold Star Family Member

Ed Pyrcioch

July 4, 2008

My condolances to the Francis family. I have known Rick since he came on the job. He was a wonderful man, and a great copper. He will be missed.

Timothy & Rhea McGovern

July 4, 2008

Dear Francis family & friends:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Although we did not know officer Francis were deeply saddened to hear about your loss. He was an honorable man. May his memory be eternal.

sean schultz

July 4, 2008

My deepest condolences to Mr. Francis's wife and children. He was such a wonderful human being and amazing officer. he will be missed and never forgotten.

Wayne Dembowski

July 4, 2008

I pray that the lord bless his soul and welcome him to heaven. Lord please guide his family in this time of hardship and sacrifce.

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