William Francis | Obit

William “Dean” Francis

February 19, 1940- January 3, 2026

William “Dean” Francis, 85, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, in North Bend, Washington. He was born on February 19, 1940, in Snoqualmie Falls, Washington, to William and Marie Francis.

Dean lived a life marked by dedication to his work, service to his country, a deep love for his family, and great affection for his community. He graduated from Mt. Si High School in 1958 and went on to attend Western Washington College. Shortly after high school, he began working for Weyerhaeuser before answering the call to serve his country.

In August 1963, Dean entered the U.S. Army and completed basic training at Fort Ord. He then attended the Army Southeastern Signal School at Fort Gordon, Georgia, where he completed an intensive eight week communications center specialist course on January 17, 1964. There, he learned military keyboard typing, teletype operations, tape relay systems, and communications center procedures. Dean served as a communications specialist during the Vietnam War—an experience that shaped his strong sense of duty and resilience.

Following his military service, Dean returned home and began a long and fulfilling career with Segale Construction. He joined the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 302 and remained a proud member for more than 55 years—a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment to his trade.

Dean was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife Carol; his mother, Marie; his father, William; and his sister, Norma. Though these losses were deeply felt, he continued to live with strength and compassion.

He is survived by many friends and family, including his stepson Ken Weisenbach (Leslie), stepson Steven Weisenbach, and stepdaughter Heidi McKernan Lamberson (Steve); his nephew William Troy Riley (Deanna); Niece Teresa Burdulis; his grandchildren Nicole, Camille, Jackson, Mitch, Dan, Kacie, Drew, Nick, Blake, Steven, and Cameron; and many great grandchildren.

A man of great generosity and warmth, Dean was known for his love of hunting trips shared with friends and family. He cherished time spent outdoors and found joy in the camaraderie those adventures brought. His friendships ran deep—he loved his friends and neighbors dearly and was always ready to lend a helping hand whenever someone was in need.

Dean’s legacy is one of kindness, loyalty, and quiet strength. He touched many lives through simple acts of generosity and steadfast friendship. Those who knew him will remember him as an amazing man who would do anything for you—a true pillar of his community. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire acts of kindness in his honor.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, May 9, from 12:00–4:00 p.m. at North Fork Farm, 43010 Southeast 79th Street, Snoqualmie, WA 98065.