Michael Francis Obituary

Our beloved Dad, Pa Pa, Soul Partner, Son, Brother and Friend, Michael Sean Francis passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, September 27th, 2024. Michael was born in Greely, CO to LaLonnie and Gary Francis on March 31, 1964. He grew up in Chico, CA and graduated from Chico Senior High School in 1982. He had many passions: cooking, music, the Denver Broncos and, most importantly – his family and friends.
Michael started cooking at age 3 with his mother. At age 16, he started his first job at Mr. Steak and continued cooking at many of the high-end restaurants in Chico. This passion led him to the California Culinary Institute in San Francisco where he excelled and graduated in 1989. He became an executive chef and worked at many prestigious institutions including Sony Pictures, the Motion Picture Television Fund and many other organizations throughout California and Texas.
He played drums from elementary school through high school and played in many bands for the local Chico music scene. He loved rock and roll music. To this day, he kept this enthusiastic rhythm alive with a drum set in his home – it became his favorite exercise of the day!
Love for the Denver Broncos started at an early age and he was able to attend training camps as a young boy. He frequently attended NFL games, eagerly seizing every opportunity to watch his favorite Broncos take the field. He instilled this passion for football in his children and grandchildren, passing on his love for it to the next generation.
Prior to his passing he was able to fulfill two lifelong dreams: driving a Ferrari on a racetrack (born out of a love for cars he inherited from his dad) and playing in a World Series of Poker tournament.
Michael is survived by his children, Tiffani (Jaylon) Hunt, Jacob Francis and Justin Francis, his grandchildren, Kallin Bowers and Carson Francis and his alma gemela, Elsa Carrasco. He also leaves behind his parents, LaLonnie and Gary Francis and his sisters, Michelle (Jace) Herbert, Heidi (Brian) Caruth and Sara Francis.
He will forever be remembered for his playful antics and contagious sense of humor, always able to brighten any room and lift the spirits of those around him.
His life will be celebrated in Estes Park, a place he cherished. Surrounded by family and friends, we will gather to honor his memory, sharing stories and laughter that reflect the joy he brought into our lives. As we spread his ashes in this place he loved so much, we'll find comfort in knowing that he will always be a part of this magnificent place, watching over us forever.
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