Scott J. Francis

Scott J. Francis, 77, of Rockford, passed away on March 12, 2024. He was born on January 20, 1947, in Rockford, the son of Robert and Dorothy (Knick) Francis. He married Susan Usiewicz in 1972, in Kankakee, Illinois. He graduated from East High School, class of 1965 and he attended  University of Illinois and earned his bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University. He continued his education with various classes at University of Arizona and University of Wisconsin, Madison. Scott worked as a project manager for Ringland Johnson, Rockford School District, Laidlaw, Richard L. Johnson Architects , and several other architectural businesses. He had a large effect on Rockford and surrounding communities with his role in the building of schools, churches, fire stations, courthouses, and Rock Valley College. In his early years at East High School, he was a member of ROTC. Scott had a passion for ham radio and morse code since the age of 13, which continued to be a large part of his life.  As an amateur radio operator known as AA9SF he communicated locally and around the world daily.  Scott was a man of many interests which included, playing several instruments, photography, study of astronomy, quantum physics and writing poetry. He enjoyed following the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Blackhawks . Scott and Susan are active members of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church. 

He is survived by his wife, Susan “Sue”; special cousins, Janie (Tom) Fahy and William Chesebro; brother-in-law, Joe Usiewicz; close friends, Mike (Lynn) Murphy and Mike (Lois) Virtue; many other cousins and his lively dog Sophie. He is predeceased by his parents, Robert and Dorothy; grandparents; and numerous cousins.