Obituary of Francis Hogan

FRANCIS HOGAN Francis Hogan passed away on Saturday, November 24, 2007, in Chico, Calif. Francis was born on May 31, 1915, to Thomas and Elsie (Hughes) Hogan in Pennsylvania. When Francis was 5, the family moved to Red Bluff, Calif. As a young man, Francis worked at Minch's Meat Market where he learned to be a butcher. On July 4, 1936, Francis married the love of his life, June Ferrel. They couple settled in Red Bluff and Francis worked for Better Buy Market as a butcher. During World War II Francis enlisted in the Marine Corps and was stationed at Camp Pendleton. He was honorably discharged in 1946. In 1953, Francis and June purchased a grocery store in. Hamilton City on Hwy 32 across from the high school. The market and meat counter were successful and the business was taking off when, in 1959, Francis suffered a massive stroke. Francis miraculously survived the stroke but was paralyzed on his right side. During a lengthy recovery, Francis learned to do almost everything over again. Despite great progress, Francis was unable to return to work and, he and June sold the grocery store. Even with his paralysis, Francis assumed all household duties including caring for his two youngest children. The family moved to Willows where June worked for the U.S. Forest Service. Francis was an active member of the Episcopal Church for over 70 years. He served on the vestry at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Red Bluff and at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Willows. Francis was also a Life Member of the Elks, Red Bluff Chapter Prior to the stroke, Francis was an avid and exceptional golfer. When he was unable to continue to golf, Francis enjoyed swimming and walking. He swam every day possible and he and June were members of the Dolphin Club in Willows for many years. Francis also walked several miles every day. He was easily recognizable with his hat and cane and his distinguished grey hair and goatee. Francis was a self-made man who never shied away from hard work. Francis also had a positive outlook regardless of any obstacle he faced. He never met a stranger and had a zest for life. Francis loved to travel and especially enjoyed the time he and June spent in Fort Bragg and Mendocino. Francis was preceded in death by his wife of over 70 years, June, in. April 2007. He is survived, by three sons, Michael Francis of Chico, Timothy James of Garberville and Matthew Champion of Chico; a daughter, Mary Margaret Johnston (Joseph) of Chico; eight grandchildren including Shelby and Haley Johnston of Chico; eight great-grandchildren; one brother; an uncle, three nephews; and many long time friends. The family would like to thank California Park Rehab. Hospital for their loving care of Francis. Services will be held on Thursday, December 6, 2007 at 2 p.m. at Glen Oaks Memorial Park, 11115 Midway, Chico, California. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Bidwell Chapel. We will miss you "Man About Town".