Francis H. Shuler, Jr.
Francis H. Shuler, Jr. age 93, of Shelby passed away Sunday evening, June 30, 2024 at Ontario Estates.
Francis was born January 7, 1931 in Shelby to the late Alma (Hannafus) and Francis H. Shuler, Sr. He graduated from Shelby High School in 1950. While employed at Wilkins Air Force Depot in Shelby, he met Mary M. Thiel. They married on October 25, 1958 and together raised their family and enjoyed many adventures throughout their marriage of 50 years. Longtime members of the Mansfield Liederkranz, Francis and Mary enjoyed polka dancing and had also enjoyed many fall trips to Vermont and New England. Projects were nearly always done as a team, no matter the size or scale. They also were longtime members of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Shelby. Mary passed away on July 30, 2008.
Francis had two major passions in life, cooking and gardening- both of which he was extremely talented at. Many would know Francis from Cornell’s IGA where he worked nearly his entire career as a meat cutter. His gardens, both flowers and vegetables, were grown to perfection but his green thumb was not one that came by accident. Everything Francis did came from his industrious, curious, and hardworking nature. If he did not know how something was done, he researched, taught himself, and applied what he learned. Correlating to his gardening passion, a major enjoyment in his life was being active in the Mansfield Men’s Garden Club for over 30 years, which included various projects such as the annual planting and raising of 12,000 mums. He also volunteered at Kingwood Center Gardens.
Francis is survived by his children: Steve (Janet) Shuler of Van Buren, Jeff (Michelle) Shuler of Shelby, and Regina (Michael) Zigmond of Avon Lake; grandchildren: Andy (McKenna) Shuler, Kevin Shuler, Taryn (Jeff) Cramer, Jillian (Doug) Noblet, Evan (Michelle) Shuler, Leo Zigmond, and Elizabeth Shuler; numerous great grandchildren; siblings: Bob (Mary Jane) Shuler, Martha Cichon, Mary Ann Fraley, and Dick (Sally) Shuler; sister-in-law: Monika Shuler; and other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents and his wife, Francis’ brothers, David and George, also preceded him death.
Family and friends are welcome on Monday, July 8, 2024 from 6-8 pm at the Penwell Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 11 am. Fr. Chris Mileski will officiate the services with burial following in Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Cemetery, Shelby. Memorial contributions may be made to Kingwood Center Gardens (Kingwoodcenter.org/donate).
Online condolences may be made on Francis’ obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellTurner.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneral).
I worked with Francis from 1970 till 1983 in the meat shop. He was a great sausage maker of his own bratwurst recipe. Over the years he had made thousands of pounds of sausage for Cornells customer let alone cutting tons of Beef , Pork , and Chickens. We had fun doing it daily. A great personality he will be sadly missed. I have fond memories of working with Francis. My condolences to all his family. Gene and Olga
Dick and family. So very sorry to learn of your brother passing. Prayers and hugs for you both
I have many fond memories of Francis at Cornells.He was a very kind man that always had a great smile.
My sincerest condolences go out to his loved ones.
Brigette Harrison
Jeff and family, my heart is sad with the news of your dad’s passing. Francis was one of the friendliest persons around town. I have memories of his kindness working in the meat department at Cornell’s. Later we always stopped to catch up with each other on my walks with the kids down Sunset. I always enjoyed talking to your dad. My sincere condolences to all of you.
Jodi Messner
My deepest sympathy to Steve. I remember your father as we grew up on Plum and Marvin Avenue. I regret because of work I am unable to express my condolences personally. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeff, Michelle and family,
So sorry for your loss of your dad. Even though we never met him. The obituary is well written and he sounds like a wonderful man. We are praying for God’s comfort in this difficult time.
Jeff and Michelle and family
Thoughts and prayer to you both and your family during this time may the Love of our Savior be with you all, prayers ,hugs during this time.
Sincere thoughts and prayers for Francie’s family. He was a good neighbor on Plum Ave.
Charlie Young, Beth and Randy Terman
I enjoyed sharing with Francis while working at Ontario Estates in activities. We would share what the Whippets were doing and games coming up etc. I would call in to let the receptionist know to tell him the game was on WMFD.
May you cherish all your good times and memories.
Steve,Jeff and Regina
Thoughts and prayers to our old neighbors growing up on Plum Ave
Mark & Whitey Young
so sorry to hear this news I spent time with Francis while working at Ontario Estates in activities. We would chat about the Whippets and I tried to let him know when they had a game on WMFD.
Prayers for the family as you remember your good times and memories.
Dear family.. we are saddened to hear of your dads passing… please know you are in our thoughts and prayers..
Dear Steve, Jeff and Regina and families,
We are sorry to hear of the passing of Uncle Francis. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May your memories bring you strength and comfort.