Michael Francis (October 1, 1942 - April 12, 2026)

On Sunday, April 12, 2026, Michael Francis left this earthly plane. Michael was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, October 1, 1942.

A veteran of the United States Air Force, Mike served with distinction as a Radio Relay Specialist. His service took him far from his Wisconsin roots, including a tour at Incirlik Air Base in Turkey with the 728th Tactical Control Squadron. For his dedication and character, he was awarded the Air Force Good Conduct Medal and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.

Following his honorable discharge, Mike translated his military technical expertise into a prolific near 40-year career in Information Technology. A "21st Century Lineman," he was a man who would work anyone else under the table, designing entire corporate computer infrastructures from the ground up. He was the one who would wake at 2:00 AM to fix downed servers, ensuring the world stayed connected through his tireless work ethic and brilliant mind.

Mike was truly a Renaissance man. He had many interests including passions for all kinds of automobile racing, camping, travel, cooking and listening to music. He loved to tell jokes and stories. But most of all he loved his family.

Mike and Edwina traveled and camped through all fifty US states, most of Canada and Mexico. They also traveled to many foreign countries. There wasn't an auto race he didn't like. One of his favorite memories is when he went to the Indy 500 as the guest of IBM. It was truly a highlight. Since traveling to Mexico was one of his favorite destinations, Mike became very interested in making all different kinds of salsas. He frequently asked his wife to "get out of his kitchen" so he could slice and dice. Even though he did not play an instrument he loved listening to all types of music. Music was a constant in his life.

Mike loved taking his grandchildren camping to different places in New Mexico to share his love of the beauty of nature. As fun and exciting it could be to travel to cities, his heart was in the forests, deserts and mountains.

Mike is survived by his wife, Edwina, two daughters, Heidi Francis (Bill Rademacher), and Liz Lunarosa (Arianna) and a son, Edward Francis, as well as four grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard; two sisters, Patricia and Janice; his parents, grandparents and numerous aunts and uncles.

Michael's funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 10 am. The location is St. Michael's and All Angels Episcopal Church in Albuquerque, NM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a charitable donation in his name to either Humminbird Music Camp's scholarship fund in New Mexico, or the organization of your choice. The foundation for Hummingbird Music Camp is Sky Velvet Vassar Music Foundation. You can either donate through their website or send a check via mail. Instructions are on the website.

If you plan to attend the celebration of life please respond via email to: mikefrancismemorial@gmail.com