Francis V. Theis

THEIS, Francis V. 8/1/1930 – 1/10/2019 Francis V. Theis, beloved husband, was born August 1, 1930, in Minden, Nebraska.He lived with his family on a farm near Heartwell, NE, and often told stories of his life during the dust bowl of the 30's.The wind would blow from one direction and pile dust up on one side of the fence.The next day it would blow from the opposite direction and the dust would be piled on other side.He remembered laying his head on the sheets to cool his face. When he was eight years old his family moved to Anita, Iowa, to live with relatives.After a couple of years they were able to buy a farm near Wiota, Iowa.He told a story of the times they would have popcorn in the evening, and having it served the next morning for breakfast with milk. He graduated from Wiota High School in 1947, in class of 18. Francis enjoyed going back for class reunions. He was drafted into the Army in January 1952, serving 11 months in Korea on combat duty. Francis was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in Korea. He was separated from the Army in October 1953, and served 8 years in the Army Reserve. He worked as a printer at the Atlantic News Telegraph and Omaha World Herald for a total of 19 years. He then worked at the main post office running a mail sorting machine until his 62nd birthday, when he retired. He had the good fortune to enjoy 26 years of retirement. Francis met his wife, Marilyn, on a blind date in Omaha. They were married 61 years and had 4 children. He instructed each of his children in the benefits of hard work. He like card games, fishing, golfing and playing shuffleboard. He also very much enjoyed playing horseshoes at the family cabin on the Elkhorn River. He was preceded in death by his son David Theis; Francis is survived by his Wife of 61 years, Marilyn Theis; Children: Mark Theis, Doug Theis & wife Vickie, Terri Safarik & husband Brian; Grandchildren: Jacob and Kaitlin; Many other relatives and friends. Celebration of Francis’ Life: Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019 at 11:00am, with family receiving friends one hour prior to the service, all at Braman Mortuary (72 St. Chapel) Braman Mortuary (72 St. Chapel) 1702 N. 72 St. Omaha, NE68114 402-391-2171 © 2018 Braman Mortuary