AKWESASNE – David L. Francis, affectionately known throughout the community as "Uncle Dave", 57, of 44 Angus Thomas Memorial Drive, Kanatakon, passed away Wednesday morning, April 24, 2019 at IA KHIH SOH THA Lodge after a courageous battle with cancer.

Dave was born May 8, 1961 in Syracuse, the son of Mary Herne Francis and the late Michael H. Francis, Sr. He attended schools in Kanatakon before going to Bishop MacDonnell and General Vanier. He was married to Deborah Thompson before their marriage ended in divorce.

Dave was an ironworker working for various Locals throughout United States and Canada. Most recently he had worked with Local 401, 5, and 676. He had a great love for fishing and netting, planting flowers and vegetables, woodcarving, and woodworking. More recently he had developed a talent for canvas painting and enjoyed visiting and bartering with his Amish friends. He loved spending time with his family at his mom's home, having coffee or cruising around Saint visiting his friends. Dave was passionate about ensuring that the kids in the neighborhood had a safe place to swim and play, as he was instrumental in getting "The Point" behind the St. Regis Church Rectory landscaped and cleaned for all the community to enjoy.

Dave is survived by his mother, Mary; his children, Jordan Francis (Shevi Thomas), Jeremy Francis, Joshua Francis (Leah Square), Jonathan Francis (Valin), and Autumn Cree, all of Akwesasne; and his grandchildren, Kiyah, Shaina, Jordan, Lanah, Jeremy, Anna, Alec, Rita, Treyia, Jayva, Taytum, Johnny, Bailee, and Ella.

He is also survived by his brothers, Michael Jr. (Ann), Thomas (Marilyn), Joe (Lorna), John (Carolyn), Tracy (Corleen Jacco); his sisters, Robin Barnes (James), Lee Ann Jock (Steven), Cindy Francis-Mitchell (Keith), and Cathy Roundpoint (Frank), all of Akwesasne; his brother-in-law, Phillip Terrance of Akwesasne; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; a special friend, Katrina Lazore; and his godchildren, Mia Francis and Taylor Bova.

In addition to his father, he was predeceased by two sisters, Donna Francis-Hopps and Valerie Terrance; his brother-in-law, Jake Hopps; a niece, Krystal Francis; and a nephew, Michael Francis.

Friends called at the Donaldson Funeral Home on Monday. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Tuesday at St. Regis Catholic Church. Burial will be held later in the spring in St. Lawrence Cemetery, Akwesasne.

In lieu of flowers, his family is requesting that a kid's fishing pole be purchased and donated to the Kids for Fishing Program being hosted by Akwesasne Police in Uncle Dave's memory.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at http://www.donaldsonfh.com.

His family wishes to extend a warm and sincere appreciation to the caring and supportive staff of the MCA Home Support Program and the staff of IA KHIH SOH THA Lodge for their care of Dave during this challenging time.