Donald Russell Francis, 87, Minot died on Saturday, July 27, 2013 on arrival at a Minot hospital from an apparent heart attack.

Don was born on May 5, 1926 in Minot to Floyd and Cora (Fossum) Francis. He was reared and educated on a farm three miles west of Sawyer and attended rural schools prior to graduating from Sawyer High School in 1944. Don was drafted into the U.S. Army in September of 1950 and served during the Korean Conflict until September of 1952. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to the family farm and was also employed by Minot area roofing and insulation contractors.

Don married Donna Olson on July 31, 1953 in Mohall. They made their home in Minot where he was employed by the Great Northern Railroad (now Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway) until his retirement in 1988.

Don was a former member of Christ Lutheran Church, Eagles Aerie, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #753 and Elks Lodge all in Minot and the American Legion Post in Velva. He especially enjoyed gardening, reading and watching sporting events.

Don's loving family includes his wife of 60 years Donna; children: Lori Russell and Kim "Porky" (Lori) Francis all of Minot and Tami (Brent) Beeter of Bowbells; grandchildren: Jared, Casey, Nolan and Haley and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter: Lisa Branson; sister: Shirley Snellings and brothers: Clifford, Leo, Robert and Kenneth.

It was Don's wish to have a private family service.
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park - Minot.
Visitation: Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home - Minot.