Francis Bradshaw dies at 105

DOWNEY - Funeral services were held Thursday for Francis R. Bradshaw, a longtime Downey resident and business owner who died June 16 at age 105.He was born May 25, 1908 to Ella and Warren Bradshaw on the family farm in rural Durand, Wisconsin; the sixth of seven sons. He lived in Downey for more than 70 years. Bradshaw is reunited with his wife, Irene Bradshaw, who died seven months ago at age 97. He was predeceased by their son, Robert Bradshaw, and his six brothers. He is survived by grandchildren Jean, Yvonne, Daniel and Gil; great-grandson Damian Radulovic; and many nieces, nephews and their families. Francis and Irene were Downey business owners for many years, running Downey Body Works until they sold it to Paramount Chevrolet in the 1970s and retired. During retirement, Francis enjoyed rock hounding, lapidary work, jewelry making and traveling. He and his wife walked to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church nearly every day for many years, even when he was well into his 90s. Described by family members as "a modern man with old-fashioned integrity and values," Francis was born before many historic 20th century events, including the sinking of the Titanic, World War I, the Great Depression and the introduction of Oreo cookies. His father was a Union soldier during the Civil War. Services were held at OLPH Church on Aug. 29, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requested a donation to the OLPH Capital Improvement Fund or a charity of your choice.

********** Published: Aug. 29, 2013 - Volume 12 - Issue 20