Ivan M. (Bimbo) Francis, a beloved resident of Midland, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2023, at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph in Baden. He had been staying there for just a few weeks before his passing.

Ivan was born on February 19, 1935, in Midland to John and Dorothy Francis. He was a devoted husband of 68 years to Mary Frances “Fran” Blankenship Francis and father to Odette and her husband Chris Shovlin. Ivan also had two loving granddaughters, Kylie Shovlin and Krista Shovlin (Albert Park). In addition to his family, he is survived by several brothers and sisters including Joseph Francis (Cecelia), Daniel Francis (Karen), Michael Francis (Karen), Paul Francis (Donna), Darlene Trivelli (Frank) as well as many nephews and nieces. Sadly, his sister Paula Francis passed away before him.

Ivan was known for being a retired steelworker who worked in the Billet and Blooming mills at Colt Industries’ Crucible Steel Company of America plant in Midland. He also worked as a bartender at both Muzzy’s and the Wunder Bar in Midland for many years. Ivan graduated from Lincoln High School in Midland class of 1953 where he played on the Leopards’ WPIAL Football Championship team which later got him inducted into the Midland Sports Hall of Fame in 2012 along with his high school teammates. Besides that he also attended North Carolina State University Wolfpack and Geneva College Covenanters where he played football.

In accordance with Ivan’s wishes, there will be no visitation during this difficult time. Instead, those wishing to honor his memory are invited to make donations to Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center in Midland through the Noll-Schwerha Funeral Home which is handling all arrangements for this special occasion on November 21st ,2023 .