Francis C. Eastman

Francis Eastman, born September 17, 1937, in Beulah, Michigan, passed on September 25, 2025, at his residence. He is the son of the late Frank and Helen Eastman and the last surviving sibling of their six children.  

Frank was a proud veteran of the Navy, having served as an air traffic controller. His service took him to many places, including Germany and Spain, where he became fluent in both languages. Following his military service, he attended the University of Michigan Flint, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. His roots were based in farming and he enjoyed running several farms. He instilled in his children a knowledge of agriculture, gardening, and the value of hard work. He will be fondly remembered for his ability to fix things, including car repairs with bubble gum, and his inventions, which often featured a Kirby vacuum motor. The most memorable inventions included a barrel stove, a motorized lawn mower with license plates for the blades, a meat smoker, and a baby rocker that sent his youngest nephew, David, flying across the room!  

While farming was his passion, his most outstanding achievement is his four children. His oldest child was Scott, whom he adopted at the age of five. His first daughter, Melissa, was born when he was 36 years old. She was followed by Jennifer, and then Molly Francis, whom he named. He wanted his children to learn the value of hard work, education, and the importance of family love. He is survived by his son, Scott (Rita); daughters, Melissa (Peter), Sherry, Jennifer (Trent) Schwind, and Molly (Chico) Garza; and four grandchildren, Ryan Eastman, Tyler Eastman, Emily Sherry, and Tabitha Garza. He also has one great-grandson, Jay Eastman. His memory lives on with many other family members and friends who will sadly miss him. 

A private family service for Francis will be held at the Homestead Township Cemetery in Beulah, Michigan, on October 18, at 1:00 p.m. The Eastman family greatly appreciates Jenn and her team at the Ewing Country Estate for their wonderful and attentive care.

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