NILES – Francis E. “Fran” Tomkinson, 60, of Battle Creek, passed away peacefully Thursday, Aug. 13, 2009, at his home, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Fran enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country with honor during Vietnam. He was employed at the Federal Center in the roads and grounds department, where he worked for more than 30 years before his 2003 retirement. After retirement, Fran worked for Calhoun County Medial Care Facility, where he enjoyed driving the van for day care.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Aug. 22, at 2 p.m. with visitation one hour prior at New Hope Apostolic Church, 13416 W. Michigan Ave. in Marshall with Pastor Doug Fleury officiating. A private interment with military honors will be held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made in Fran’s memory to Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice, 166 E. Goodale, Battle Creek, MI 49037.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles.