Ira France Obituary
Mr. Ira Edgar “Speed” France, age 72, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Ira was born on July 22, 1953, in Flint, Michigan, to Ira & Elinor France. Before retirement, Ira worked with General Motors for 30 years as a forklift operator. He married the love-of-his-life, Virginia Lehnert, on October 3, 1981. Together they have shared countless memories, raised their children, and celebrated nearly 44 years of marriage. Ira had many passions in life including motorcycles, tractor pulls, and working on cars. When visiting the France house, one would often find Ira welcoming visitors at the garage in his chair. Most of all, Ira was a proud family man, and he enjoyed participating in the auction at family reunions. Ira was a devoted grandfather to his grandchildren and was in attendance at every sporting event and was their biggest cheerleader. He enjoyed attending high school football games on Friday nights with his family. He also enjoyed collecting things because “I might need it later”! Ira will be remembered for his loving and caring ways.
He is survived by his wife, Virginia France; son, Justin (Amy) France; daughter, Brittney (Brian) Cartner; grandchildren: Makayla France, Alexis France, Korbyn Cartner, and Nolan Cartner; brother, Jerry France; brother-in-law, Michael (Denise) Lehnert; sisters-in-law, Maureen (Don) Neff, and Sue Figgins; many nieces, nephews, and a large extended family that he inherited.
Ira was preceded in death by his parents, Ira & Elinor; sister-in-law, Judy France; nephew, Ryan Figgins; and nieces, Lori Neff, and Jenise France.
Ira’s family will welcome visitors to Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington from 2 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2025; a prayer service will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial donations may be directed to the family, c/o Mrs. Virginia France.
Kindly share a memory with the France family in the guestbook below.
Ira and his family are in the care of Hanlin Funeral Home - Millington. 4823 Main St, 48746. Phone (989) 871 - 4591.
Hanlin Funeral Homes ~ Serving Since 1928
Millington & Vassar
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4823 W Main St, Millington, MI 48746
People and places connected with Ira
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Ira France
Make a Donation
in Ira France's name
How to support Ira's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Ira France's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
