Jack France

Jack France, 71, of Palestine, IL, died January 4, 2020 in his home. He was born on August 6, 1948 in Vincennes IN, the son of William R. France & Lois (Goodwin) France, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Kimberly Ann France; a sister-in-law, Jean (Kemper) France; and a brother-in-law, Frank Martinez. He is survived by his daughters, Michelle & husband Brandon “Kenzo” McKenzie (Shelbyville, IL), Sara France (Robinson, IL), and Patricia Dennis (Palestine, IL); by his grandchildren, Chase Dunlap and Anthony Dennis; by his brother, William A. France; by his sisters, Melba Sue Metzler, Phyllis Martinez, and Nancy Gale Rodriguez; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Jack grew up on a dairy farm in rural Vincennes, where he learned the value of hard work alongside his family, who moved to the Palestine area when he was a young man. Upon graduating from Palestine High School, he went on to serve in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was shot during his tour of duty and received a Purple Heart for injuries sustained while serving his country. Upon his return to Palestine, he found work as a farm hand, and would continue to do this for many years before retiring. He married Karen (Johnson) France in 1974, and they were later divorced, but not before having four children. Anyone who knew Jack could speak to his hard-working spirit and how much he enjoyed working with his hands. He loved building things out of wood, having built everything from a small doghouse for the family pet (when his kids were young) to a shed at the back of the property. Whatever he built, he built it to last! He also found great enjoyment in the outdoors and was an avid hunter. Jack loved computers as well. He bought his first computer in the early 1990's and taught himself to use it. He was known to buy parts and assemble and build computers from the ground up. Even in his later years, he could often be found in front of a computer screen, and this was a great source of joy in his life. He will be remembered as a loyal, but reserved man who lived life his way. A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10th at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. A celebration of his life will immediately follow and will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10th at the funeral home with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. Military services will be conducted by the combined units of the Robinson V.F.W. Post #4549, the Robinson American Legion Post #69, and the Flat Rock American Legion Post #132. Memorial contributions may be made to the "V.F.W. Transportation Fund", offering local veterans help to and from their VA health care facilities. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.