Francis Edward Yanasak died April 23, 2007 at his home in Ontonagon, Michigan, following a struggle with Indolent Non Hodgkins Lymphoma.

He was married to the love of his life, Diane Stenson, on May 16, 1980.

Fran was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Evelyn (Miller) Yanasak, brothers James and Donald.

He is survived by his wife, Diane, sons Michael (Cindy) of Mentor, Ohio and Tony (Stacia) of Avon, Ohio, grandsons Derek, Brett, Ryan, Jake and Henry, and granddaughters Emma and Isabella. Fran was especially proud of his sons' accomplishments and was looking forward to welcoming a new grandchild in July. Fran is also survived by a brother David (Susan), his mother-in-law Elsie (Gordon) Ongie, sisters-in-law Kathleen Yanasak and Dorothy (Joseph) Sharkey, several nieces and nephews, and numerous friends.

Fran & Diane's toy poodle Mattie was their constant companion.

Fran was born in Ontonagon on December 17, 1939. He graduated from Ontonagon High School with the class of 1958. Fran worked for Quality Food Service beginning in high school. He worked for Jilbert's Dairy, and at Copper Range Copper Company as a foreman until 1985. He retired April 2005 after 20 years of employment at Smurfit Stone Container.

Fran was a self-taught business owner, beginning with a shoe repair business. He did custom sewing, upholstery and boat covers. Fran was well known as Ontonagon's Zipper Man, often repairing jacket zippers in emergency situations.

Fran was a life-long member of the Holy Family Catholic Church, where he was active as an usher. He was also a 3rd and 4th Degree Knight of Columbus. Fran was a faithful member of the Cursillo Movement. He served on the Ontonagon Village Council for 12 years and was also a past member of the Jaycees.

In his early 40's he was diagnosed with PDK (polycystic kidney disease), which added to his dedication to physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Fran enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, camping, skiing, and entered many cross-country ski races. Fran and Diane were often seen out walking with Mattie. He enjoyed traveling and frequent visits to Ohio to spend time with his family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 26 from 5-8pm at the Cane Funeral Home. A rosary will be said at 7:30 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, April 27 at 11am at the Holy Family Catholic Church with Fr. Antony Lukose officiating. Friends may also call at the church Friday from 10am until the time of service. Burial will be in the Holy Family Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jim Anderson, Joe Sharkey, Jim Block, Jim LeMoine,, Tom Stahl and Dan Vezzetti. Honorary Pallbearers are Jack Longhini, Don Bolander Homer Colclasure and Tom Strong

The family suggests that any contributions be made to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation, 9221 Ward Parkway, Suite 400, Kansas, MO 64114-3367