Francis Lynch

Francis J. Lynch, age 88, of Varina, Iowa died Thursday, July 28, 2011 at the Newell Good Samaritan Center in Newell, Iowa. Francis J. Lynch was born November 24, 1922 the son of James and Emma (Biittner) Lynch on the Biittner Farm near Laurens, Iowa. Growing up, Francis was baptized and confirmed at St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Varina, where he remained a lifelong member. He attended grade school and later graduated from St. Columbkille Catholic High School in 1941. Following high school graduation, Francis entered the United States Army in January of 1943 where he served during World War II as a Technical Staff Sergeant stationed in England. He was honorably discharged in February of 1946. On April 10, 1951, Francis was united in marriage to Shannon Kapsch at the St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Varina. Together, they were blessed with four children: Marcia, Cindy, Becky, and Terry. Francis was a member of the Varina Legion, the Varina Town Council, and a volunteer for the Varina Fire Department. He worked for Mauer Construction, Star Route USPS, and also drove a tank wagon for Farmers Co-op of Marathon. Francis enjoyed working on cars in his garage. He was an avid sports fan and loved traveling with Shannon. Francis treasured his family and cherished family gatherings, where he could always find a group ready for a card game and laughter. His one-liners were priceless. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 60 years, Shannon Lynch of Varina, Iowa; children: Marcia Lynch of Waukee, Iowa; Cindy (Jerry) Christenson of Calumet, Iowa; Becky Lynch of Waukee, Iowa; Terry (Laurie) Lynch of Marion, Iowa; grandchildren: John Christenson; Lisa (fiancÃ©, Dave Spaeth) Livingston; Laura (Kent) Kunkel; Kayla (fiancÃ©, Drew Engebrecht) Lynch; great grandchild, Braelee Jean Kunkel; sisters: Betty (Hank) Sego of Pekin, Illinois; Carmen (Marlyn) Null of Pekin, Illinois; sister-in-law, Ivanel Lynch of Pekin, Illinois; extended family and friends. Francis was preceded in death by his parents, James and Emma Lynch; sister, Margaret (Vern) Olberding; brothers: Ed Lynch and infant, Joseph Lynch.

Francis Lynch

November 24, 1922 - July 28, 2011