Francis Wankier

Our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend and neighbor Francis Wankier, age 82, passed away Nov 16, 2020, with his children at his side, in Provo, Utah after a short but courageous battle with COVID-19.

Francis was born August 23, 1938, in Levan, Utah to Joseph A. and Carrie Anderson Wankier, the youngest of 8 children. He married Joyce Stephensen on June 20, 1958; they were later divorced. On Nov 16, 1985 he married Charlotte Gustafson in Sandy, Utah, their marriage was later solemnized in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Jordan River Temple.

Francis graduated from Juab High School. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Francis was always a friendly person and could talk to anyone that happened to be near him. He was kind and genuinely concerned with others and would often ask many questions as he tried to understand whatever the situation, and then reach out to help in the best way he can. Most came to love his casual conversations and the many stories and experiences that he would share. Having been raised in Levan he knew all the older homes and families and could spend an entire day just talking about the good old days. He knew the mountains above Levan like the back of his hand and could name every canyon and hollow, as well as knowing all the springs and water holes, having spent many days herding cattle and hunting deer and elk in those mountains. He loved the outdoors, whether that was farming in the fields, fishing, hunting, or just a getaway camp trip, he seemed to always be at one with nature, and just like his older brothers Francis loved sports especially baseball, and he cherished the memories of playing ball with them.

To his family he was kind and caring yet stern and dedicated to his beliefs. He loved his children, his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren beyond measure and that showed in his every step throughout his life’s journey. He set an example that left an impression on each of them that will carry his legacy forever.

His children would like to thank all those friends and neighbors who have been so good to him over the years, when he would stop by for a visit so many would stop the things that they were doing to visit with him, have him over for dinner and show him love and kindness as well. Also a very special thanks to all the health care workers who spent the last few days and minutes of his life with him, they got to know him and about his life, they fought hard for him during his courageous battle against COVID-19. May God bless them, every one of them.

Francis is survived by his children Darlene (Matthew) Kimball, Levan, Utah; Valerie Reynolds, Midvale, Utah; James (Jill) Wankier, Levan, Utah; one stepson Steve Davis, 8 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his Wife Charlotte, his parents Joseph and Carrie. 5 brothers, Clem, Marion, Udell, Leo, and Carl, and 2 sisters, Lavell, and Mary Joe.

Friends and family are invited to a viewing Thursday, Nov. 19, 4:00-6:00pm at the Levan Ward Chapel in Levan, Utah. A family funeral service will be held Friday, Nov. 20 at 11:00am in Salt Lake City, Utah. Due to social distancing guidelines attendance at the funeral is by invitation only, however everyone is invited to watch the funeral services online at HolbrookMortuary.com. Interment will follow at the Murray City Cemetery.

To watch the funeral service scroll to the bottom of this obituary page on Nov. 20^th at 11:00am, the service will remain available to watch for 90 days.