CHARLES G. FRANCIS

I was fortunate to know Chuck during my 10-year career at IBM and later when I worked at Reader's Digest in Chappaqua, N.Y. On occasion we would meet at the Kittle House for lunch and stimulating conversation.

After I left RD and joined Michelin in South Carolina, I would see him now and then on trips to the New York area. Chuck was a mentor but more than anything I cherished his friendship. He possessed a quick wit, an encyclopedic mind and an infectious laugh. He was an...

Chuck was always a gentleman, one with a quick wit and a sharp business mind. He loved writing and writers and you always knew that he would have something interesting to talk about.

My condolences to his family.

Chuck was exceptionally gifted – as a human being and as a professional. From the day I met him, when he interviewed me for a job in March 1966, to our last lunch 40 years later and in phone calls and emails after that, I always found that when you shared some of your day with Chuck Francis, that was a good day. Like so many others, I’ll remember him and miss him.

A quote from Chuck’s book seems apt at this time:

“An anonymous verse maker once made this insightful observation:

Mr. MEANT-TO
Mr. Meant-to has a comrade,
And his name is Didn’t do,
Have you ever chanced to meet him?
Did he ever call on you?
These two fellows live together
In the house of Never-win,
And I’m told that it is haunted
By the ghost of Might-have-been.”

Chuck was the furthest thing from a Might-have-been...

Chuck Francis welcomed me into the IBM family as one of his video and film producers. He was a gracious, wise, and creative visionary. I will cherish his thoughtful generosity and leadership the rest of my days. God bless Chuck. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

Our lives intertwined early and late, from serving together on the Daily Bruin to email and telephone pals nearly to the end. We have always honored Chuck for his wisdom, courage, honesty and integrity; now add dignity and grace, for the way he faced the inevitable.

Our deepest sympathy to Barbara and the family.

Chuck Francis was a fine gentleman whose style and manner and grace we would all do well to emulate.

With condolences to Barbara and the family,

Bill Dunne

Chuck Francis was a real gentleman. He was one of the most talented, generous and nicest people I've ever known.

With great respect,

Ken Allen

Chuck Francis will long be remembered for his sharp mind, his quick wit and his gentle soul. We'll miss you Chuck.

With sympathy to the family,

Kathy Riemer