Francis “Fran” Gullquist, 82, of Ashkum passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Prime Healthcare St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee. He was born on May 29, 1943 in Chebanse, a son of Walter and Myrtle (Emme) Gullquist and they preceded him in death.

 

Fran married Sue Schoon on October 12, 1968 at Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton and she survives.

 

Also surviving are two daughters, Kimberly (Brett) Galyen of Monticello, Indiana and Sara (Eric) Meister of Ashkum; five grandchildren, Bryce (Courtney) Galyen, Emalee Galyen (Andrew McLIrath), Caleb Meister (Meg Frank), Emma Meister, and Morgan Galyen; and two brothers, Carl “Duke” (Virginia) Gullquist and Gary (Debbie) Gullquist.

 

Besides his parents, he was also preceded in death by one sister, Bonnie Jean; one brother, Kevin; and his in-laws, Leroy and Pat Schoon.

 

Fran was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton. He was the founder and co-owner of Friendly Signs. Fran was very proud of being a member for over 55 years in the IBEW Local 176. Fran was also a proud veteran of the United States Army. He loved watching the Chicago Cubs and traveling. Fran was a collector of many items including coins, marbles, shot glasses, Mickey Mouse Memorabilia, and hats. He loved to eat banana cream pie, but most of all Fran loved time spent with family and his grandchildren.

 

Visitation will be from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and also one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton with Pastor Joel Brown officiating. Burial will follow in the Ashkum Cemetery with graveside military rites by the Central VFW and Ashkum American Legion.

 

In lieu of flowers, eat a piece of banana cream pie in memory of Fran or memorial donations may be given to Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton, American Diabetes Association, Shriners Hospitals for Children, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

 

Please share a memory of Fran at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.