Elsie Lois Francisco

Elsie Lois Francisco (previously Howell), 96, passed away Thursday, December 3rd in the afternoon at Havana Nursing Home. She was born August 16th, 1924 in Easton. She was the daughter of William M. VanEtten and Elsie G. (Walker) VanEtten. She married Russell “Red” H. Howell on September 10th, 1944 in Easton. They were married for 50 years and had 3 kids together. He passed away March 16th, 1995. She later married Charles J. Francisco in Havana on February 12th, 2000. Surviving are her children Barbara Sue Bohm of Havana, Russell “Rusty” (Brenda) Howell of Marshall, and Ronald Howell of LeRoy; grandchildren Tammy (Steve) Elledge, Russell Ryan (Heather) Howell, Amanda (Kyle) Roberts, Rodney (Hannah) Howell, Brett Howell, and Stephanie Howell; great-grandchildren Alexandra (Dustin) Martin, Charles Elledge, Hannah Howell, and Hayden Howell; great-great grandchild Declan Martin. She is also survived by her siblings Doris Shelabarger, James “Jim” VanEtten, and Nancy Huber. She was preceded in death by her parents William and Elsie VanEtten, spouse Russell Howell, spouse Charles Francisco, son-in-law Dale Bohm, and siblings Frances Raridon, Rosie Pinkham, and an infant brother. Elsie was born and raised in Easton on the family farm. She grew up walking to the one room school house with her 5 siblings. One of her many hobbies was cooking, and her love of cooking started when she was a young girl on the farm. She always loved cooking food and sweets for her family, friends and businesses around the town of Havana. You could always expect her holiday cinnamon rolls around Christmas time. She was also an avid card player. You could find her playing Bridge, Solitaire, or just about any card game with her family. She was a well-known and dedicated care giver in the Havana area for many, many years. Her excellent care giver qualities were only out done by her extremely kind, cheerful, loving, and very positive and out-going personality. She was also very active in her local church, First United Methodist Church, always helping out and providing food for events held there. Cremation services will be performed by the Schmidt-Haller Crematorium in East Peoria. Due to COVID-19, a private family burial of the remains and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Family and friends will be notified when this is arranged. In lieu of cards and flowers, memorial donations can be made to First United Methodist Church, 101 S Broadway St. Havana, IL 62644. Her loving personality and delicious baked goods will be deeply missed. Elsie will be remembered as a loving mother, grandma, and friend. And as Elsie would always say whenever someone would leave: I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck. I love you all!