Francis Henry McMahon

Francis H. McMahon, died March 9th, 2016. "All I ever wanted to be was a coach." He was that and so much more: son, brother, athlete, soldier, husband, father, grandfather, educator, friend. . . The journey began for Francis H. McMahon on September 18, 1923, in Saginaw, Michigan. He was the first born of 6 children (Barbara, Kathleen, John, James, William) to Linda (Echerdt) and Frank McMahon. Of the original family only the youngest William is still living. Baby Francis H. McMahon was soon transplanted to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. By junior high school, he knew his future included coaching as he enjoyed an array of sports. He graduated from Baraga High School in 1941. He went to Northern Michigan University in 1941-1942 to play football and basketball. He had already signed up with the Marines for a delayed entry on April 3, 1943. While in the Marines, he was involved in the Battle of Okinawa and the Occupation of Japan. He refused the Purple Heart as he didn't want his mother to be more worried about him. During his time in the service, he nearly circled the globe. In 1946 he was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps as a Staff Sergeant. On December 31, 1941, he met his heart's love, Jeanne Fugere of Iron Mountain, MI. They were married on August 24, 1946. During the 1950s they had 5 children: Lynne Witham, Lorna, Brian, Patrick, and Laurie. Two grandsons, Eric and Stephen Witham, completed the family. Brian died in 1952; Jeanne and Lynne in 2000. Family was always important to him. Coach McMahon graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1950 with a BS degree in Physical Education. During his four years he participated in football (co-captain his senior year.) He was employed by the Mackinaw City Public Schools from 1950-1957 where his duties included coaching, teaching and administration. From 1957-1963 he was counselor and coach at Pellston Public Schools. He returned to Mackinaw City Public Schools in 1963 as Superintendent with coaching responsibilities. He retired in 1983. Many memories were made within the walls and playing fields of both schools, as well as life lessons learned. Game statistics, as well as life statistics, are superficial. There is more depth to the game and to the man. He was a humble man with great respect for others, and that respect was returned to him. His was a good life-lived longer than he ever thought would be possible. Okinawa taught him to value each day as a treasure. Although dementia took his mind, it also allowed his spirit to shine more clearly. The competitive edge, the humor and the kindness remained strong until the end. He was a truly good man. His ashes will be mingled with Jeanne's, and they will once again be together in Baraga, Michigan, where they met on a blind date on New Year's Eve so many years ago, a fairy tale love blended with a good dose of reality. He wished not to have a funeral service or any public ceremony to commemorate his life. If you knew him, please take a moment to remember. And if you wish, please make a contribution to Hospice of the Straits. Their assistance eased his journey and helped the family immensely. But just the memory would be enough for him as he knew how hard life could be and also how wonderful. Although his journey on earth ended on March 9, 2016, his legacy lives on within those who knew and admired him. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations in our Father's honor to: Vital Care/Hospice of the Straits, 726 LaFayette Street, Cheboygan MI Arrangements were handled by Dodson Funeral Home, St.Ignace.

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Francis Henry McMahon

March 9, 2016