Francis G. Wash

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His legacy will not be measured by accomplishments, but by the countless lives he touched through his love, generosity, compassion, and kindness.

Francis George Wash, 83 of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away on September 22, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. 

Born on March 21, 1943, in Norway, Michigan, Francis was the son of Joseph and Marian Wash. He grew up in Faithorn, Michigan, and graduated from Norway High School.

Francis proudly served in the United States Army. His service to his country was something he carried with pride throughout his life.

Francis worked for many years at the Port Edwards paper mill, where he eventually retired.

An avid outdoorsman, Francis enjoyed hunting with his friend of more than 50 years, Dewayne. He cherished the time they spent together in the outdoors and the friendship they shared.

In his later years, he put his dancing shoes back on and enjoyed traveling to as many polka dances as possible. He truly cherished the relationships and friendships he made along the way.

Throughout his life, Francis was known above all for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering optimism. He was always there for his family, friends, and anyone in need. He approached every challenge with hope and a positive spirit, even during the hardest times. He found joy in life's simple pleasures: the company of loved ones, a good polka dance, and chatting on the phone or over a cup of coffee.

Francis is survived by his children, Eric (Suki), Crys (Scott), Melissa, Andrew, and Nick (Abby); and by his seven grandchildren, who were the joy of his life: Elijah, Rachel, Tessa, Emily, Jace, Jeremiah, and Brayden; and his siblings, Donald, James, and Kathy

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Zella.

Francis was the kind of man who gave without expecting anything in return, loved without condition, and never stopped believing that better days were ahead. He was the definition of a hero, not because of any single act, but because of the way he lived each and every day. He was the kind of father, husband, brother, and friend that others strive to be. His legacy will not be measured by accomplishments, but by the countless lives he touched through his love, generosity, compassion, and kindness.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the care teams at Aspirus, Marshfield Clinic, and Rennes Health & Rehab Center for their compassionate care and support during his illness.

In honor of Francis's memory, the family asks that you pay his kindness forward. Make the phone call you've been putting off. Spend time with those you love. Enjoy the outdoors. Treasure each other's company and live life to its fullest. And above all, don't forget to put on your dancing shoes. 

A Mass of Christian Burial for Francis will take place at 11:00 AM on Friday, October 9, 2026 at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church, 800 Fourth Avenue, Stevens Point. Father John Potaczek will be presiding. Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until the time of service in the Saint Faustina Room at the church. 

The burial will take place at 10:00 AM on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Faithorn Riverside Cemetery in Faithorn, Michigan. A Celebration of Life luncheon will immediately follow at the Faithorn Town Hall until 2:00 PM.

Pisarski Funeral Homes are honored to be serving the Wash Family.