Francis Steve Ficek was born on July 16, 1939 in Dickinson, ND to Steve and Mary (Kadrmas) Ficek.
In 1957, Fran joined the United States Marines. While he was serving, he met Jeannette Juanita Wagner, and they married before Francis was honorably discharged. They moved to California and began a family. To their union, three beloved sons were born, Jack, Chris, and Russ. Fran and Jan eventually opted to raise the kids in a small-town setting, moving to Sturgis in the late 60s. Fran loved his boys, and he spent his life firmly coaching them in all of their sports and many of life's other endeavors.
Francis "Fran" Ficek, 81, of Sturgis, SD, died Friday, February 19, 2021 at the Department of Veterans Affairs Fort Meade.
He is survived by his sister, LaVonne Mischel, whom he loved and spoke with on a daily basis; son, Jack (Joni) Ficek, their five children, 14 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren; son, Chris Ficek, his children, Kobi and Ryan (Allison), and his grandchildren, Cody, Jason, Lillian, Evelyn, Lilah, Elenor, and Lynkin; a daughter-in-law, Tina Hopson, her children, Miranda and Kerri (Curt), and her grandchildren, Letti and Arian; his grandson, Christopher and his children, Jayden and Marcus; his special friend of 16 years, Barb Riley; and many other extended family members and friends.
Fran was preceded in death by his parents, Steve and Mary Ficek; a son, Russ Ficek; and a sister, Bonnie Copper.
A private family committal service with military honors will be held at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis. A gathering will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 1, 2021 at the Sidehack Saloon in Sturgis for a time of sharing and remembrance.
He will be dearly missed by all, and Heaven is certainly a better place having welcomed Fran home. Forever and always loved.