Kenneth J. Francois Mr. Ken Francois of Cedarburg passed away Sunday morning June 21 2015 at Lasata's rehabilitation center in Cedarburg. He was 91 years old. Ken was born December 2 1923 in Marquette MI the son of Joseph and Gladys (nee Van De Zande) Francois. After graduating high school he attended college at Michigan Tech where he studied forestry. Ken proudly served his country in the United States Army. On June 14 1947 he was united in marriage with Ella Schafer in L'Anse MI. The couple just celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary. In 1960 Ken began Lumber Sales and Products in Jackson and the company still exists today under the leadership of his son. He also started numerous other successful businesses in the wood industry throughout his career. Big Ken was an ambitious and hard worker and instilled a strong work ethic in all his children. Ken was a member of St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church. He was a Green Bay Packer and Milwaukee Brewer fan was passionate about his career and loved trees logging and wood. He enjoyed feeding wildlife and birds in his backyard and making people laugh. Most importantly he enjoyed spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. He was his family's rock and hero and will be dearly missed every day. Ken is survived by his wife Ella and their children: Joseph (Penny) Francois of Minocqua Jim (Melinda) Francois of Cedarburg and Mary Francois (Fred Hadler) of Wauwatosa. He is further survived by 2 daughters-in-law: Nancy Francois of Cedarburg and Tamara Francois-Newbauer of Bayside 13 grandchildren one brother Richard Francois of L'Anse MI two sisters: JoAnn Michaud of Iron Mountain MI and Linda (Jon) Bastian of Fond du Lac brother-in-law Louie Santini of West Bend nieces nephews other relatives and friends. Ken is preceded in death by three sons: Michael Jay (Sheila) and David and two sisters: Phyllis Santini and Marilyn McKindles. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:30AM on Saturday June 27 2015 at St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church North 1375 Covered Bridge Rd in Cedarburg with Father Justin Lopina presiding. The family will receive visitors at the church on Saturday from 10-11:30AM. Ken will be laid to rest in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be given to a charity of the donor's choice in Ken's name. The Eernisse Funeral Home Cedarburg is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. The family would like to thank the staff of Lasata Care Center for their gentle and kind care of Ken and his family.