Francis Leroy Hinds
WEST LAFAYETTE – Francis Leroy Hinds, 83, of West Lafayette, passed away in the comfort of his home on Saturday, December 16, 2017, surrounded by his loved ones.
Francis was born in West Lafayette on August 7, 1934 to the late Ezra Leroy and Lelia Grace (Dewitt) Hinds. He graduated from West Lafayette High School in 1952 and then served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959, where he was stationed in Germany as a radar operator. While serving his country, he survived being struck by lightning. Francis’ love for farming began at the age of 12, and after he returned home from Germany, he remodeled the home farm and built an 18-stall milk house and went on to produce grade-A milk. On July 8, 1967, Francis married Rita Ann (Mellett) Hinds, who preceded him in death in 1991. Together, he and Rita farmed and managed Hinds Jersey Farm. He was active in 4-H as an advisor and he received the 4-H Ambassador Award. Francis was well known for his generosity and kindness. He was dedicated to his work and to his family. He was self-reliant and intelligent, and he used that to solve problems and to benefit his life and his work.
Francis is survived by his son, Matthew (Larry) Hinds, granddaughter Rachael Grace Hinds, sister Miriam Rose (Burton) Shurlow of Wayne, Michigan, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Along with his wife and parents, Francis is preceded in death by his sisters, Rita Grace Hinds and Wroena (Bob) Dusthimer.
Calling hours for Francis will be held at Given-Dawson-Paisley Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 20, 2017 from 5-7 p.m. Funeral Services will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, December 21, 2017 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Matt Anderson officiating. Per the family’s wishes, a cremation will follow.
For those who wish, contributions may be made to the donor’s choice of charity.
An online memorial can be viewed at www.given-dawson-paisleyfh.com.
Category: Obituaries
