Francis S. Kiddish

Francis S. Kiddish, beloved husband, father, pop-pop and brother, 79, passed away at his home on Kline Street on Dec. 24.

He was born on Friday, April 24, 1942, in Freeland, the son of the late Joseph and Mary (Demkovich) Kiddish. Francis was also predeceased by sons, Jonathan M. Kiddish, on Aug. 5, 2016, Michael E. Kiddish, on April 17, 2018; grandson, Kyle D. Kiddish, on March 10, 2021; and brother, David Kiddish.

Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Jean L. (Helker) Kiddish; son, Steven A. Kiddish, Weatherly; brothers, Joseph Kiddish and his wife, Jody; Richard Kiddish and his wife, Linda; and Mark Kiddish and his wife, Kathy; sister, Marie Hankins, wife of Harley; grandchildren, Dillon and Brianna; daughter-in-law, LeeAnn Kiddish; brother-in-law, Bill Helker; and sisters-in-law, Peg Jancewicz; and Joan Sorrels. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive Francis.

A 1960 graduate of Freeland High School, Francis entered the Marine Corps in July 1960 and served six years honorably during the Vietnam War, being discharged at the rank of sergeant (E-5) with numerous meritorious awards. Francis earned an associate's degree from Williamsport Community College in energy managements for nursing homes. Francis retired after many years as maintenance foreman of Weatherwood Nursing Home, Weatherly.

In 1986 Francis answered the call to duty again, enlisting in the U.S. Army National Guard Co C876th Engineering Battalion of Hazleton. Francis served 21 years, rising to the rank of sergeant after numerous overseas deployments. Francis loved his time in the guard and coveted his assignment working on Galeton Lake in Potter County. Francis and his family took numerous summer vacations to the lake where they met many lifelong friends. An outdoorsman, Francis enjoyed fishing and hunting. Francis liked to work on cars and took great pride in remodeling his home. He was a devoted husband, father and beloved grandpop.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 211 First St., Weatherly.

A celebration of Francis's life will be held at 11 a.m. Jan. 8 from the funeral home. Friends may call from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services Saturday.

Interment with military honors will be bestowed in Union Cemetery, Weatherly.

Memorials in Francis' name can be made to Disabled American Veterans Philadelphia National Service Office, 5000 Wissahickon Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19144

Condolences may be made to the family at www

.griffithsfuneralhomes.com.