Jackson S. Francis
Obituaries
Daily Sentinel page 3D - September 6, 2020
Lifelong Grand Junction
resident, Jackson S. Francis,
passed away on August 14, 2020.
Jack was born to Murl and
Alberta Francis on September
17, 1934, in St. Mary’s Hospital.
Several years later his sister,
Joan, was born. Jack always said
he was a cantankerous brother
but he was very proud of his
sister’s accomplishments. Murl,
Alberta and Joan predecease
Jack.
Jack graduated from Grand
Junction High School in 1952.
He began his active duty service
in the Army in February of 1956.
He left active duty in December
of 1957 and continued serving
in the reserves until he was
honorably discharged in 1962.
Jack worked in the lab of the
American Gilsonite Refinery in
Fruita, CO. Because of his high
intellect he was encouraged to go to college by his supervisors.
Jack headed to the University of Colorado where he studied law.
He earned his Juris Doctorate degree in 1968. Jack learned he
appreciated the study of law more than the practice so he made his
living working for the Denver Rio Grande Western Railroad for
over 30 years. It was here he made some of his closest friends.
Jack was a military historian. He traveled around the world and
walked some of the most famous battle sites. He fondly referred to
himself as a “gun nut.” His friends will miss his stories and pictures
from his trips.
Jack was many things to his friends – mentor, story teller, and
philanthropist. He will be missed by many.
Per Jack’s request, there will not be a service.
