Leo Charles Franciscus, 94, passed away on November 28, 2023. He was the beloved husband of his late wife, Joyce, for 56 years and a wonderful father to Joy (Eddie) Powers, Lee (Angie), Jerry (Megan), and Larry (Laurie), and a cherished grandpa to Gabrielle, Brock, Blake, and Nicholas Powers; Dillon, Devon, Clare, Kate Marie, and Molly Franciscus; and Andrew Boutell.

Leo enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. After his four years of service, he attended the University of Pittsburgh where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He had a long and successful career at NASA’s Lewis Research Center as an Aerospace engineer and was awarded two United States patents for his work on rocket engines.

After retirement, Leo enjoyed working on his Mustang cars, sailing his sailboat on Lake Erie, swimming laps at the local pools, and relaxing at his lakeside cottage in Huron. He took great pride in his family and enjoyed time spent together. He was a devoted Catholic and living a holy life was of utmost importance to him. Leo always had a great big smile on his face and a calm and kind personality. He will be greatly missed.

Leo was born on October 13, 1929 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Lawrence and Ruth Franciscus and enjoyed a happy childhood with his siblings: Larry, Joe, Mary Lou, and Eddie. They are all celebrating his arrival in heaven!

A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 15th at 11:00 am at St. Christopher’s Church, 20141 Detroit Road, Rocky River. Family and friends will be received in the Gathering Room at the church between 10-11 am prior to the Mass. Memorial donations may be made to the National Alzheimer’s Association or St. Christopher’s Catholic Church.