Francis was born on December 5, 1951, the son of Frank C. and Stella D. (Pohonka) Lovcik at Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, ND. In his early childhood he lived on the family farm by Pisek and later on they moved into town. He went to school in Pisek and graduated in 1969. In July of 1970, Francis enlisted in the U.S. Army. Francis served almost 27 years in the military, taking him throughout the world. His tours of duty’s included Vietnam, The Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Panama and Honduras and several state side missions. He was awarded many ribbons and unit citations throughout his military career. He was very proud of his military service. He retired from the military in 1997. On September 2, 1975 Francis began work at the GTA elevator at Pisek, then later it became the Harvest States Elevator and then finally CHS, where he worked for 40 years before retiring.
On August 4, 2005, Francis married Luwanna Bjerke at Carrington, ND. Together they made their home at Pisek, enjoying the yard, raising a garden, and enjoying the peace and quiet of rural living. Francis enjoyed the outdoors; his favorite past time was hunting and spending time on Devils Lake fishing. His love for sports was second to none, as his favorite teams were the New York Yankees, which he got to see in person on occasion, the Green Bay Packers, and of course the Fighting Sioux.
Francis was involved with several local organizations. Pisek Volunteer Fireman, until his health became an issue. He was a member at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church of Pisek, was a member of the American Legion Post 208 for over 45 years. He served several terms as Commander, Sgt at Arms, and was a 2nd District Commander. Francis loved his Legion Post and his fellow veterans, as he was instrumental in organizing and helping dedicate the Veterans Memorial as a way to show support and gratitude for our fellow veterans. His love and devotion to fellow veterans was how he never forgot, whether it was a veteran’s funeral, Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, parades or presentation of colors, he was there to show support for his country, his community, and his fellow veterans. Francis was also a member of the V.F.W. and a life member of the D.A.K.
Francis is survived by his wife Luwanna; brother Dennis (Elaine) Lovcik; sister JoAnn (Gary) Nokelby; sister in laws: Mary (Melvin) Obie and Darlene Haave and several nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Danielle Hagen, brother Joe (Loretta) Lovcik, and infant sister Loretta.
Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. at St John Nepomucene of Pisek, ND. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will be at the church cemetery. Military Rites will be provided by the American Legion Post 208 of Pisek and the National Guard Honor Guard.