Francis Cox

March 24, 1929 ~ May 23, 2020
Francis Cox passed away peacefully on May 23, 2020, at the home of his caretaker Bianca to whom the family is eternally grateful. She made the last years of his life a joy. Francis graduated from high school in Washougal, Washington and maintained many ties to that community. At Washougal High School he was a part of the undefeated football team in 1947-48 and was also a track star holding the 440-yard record for many years.
He was awarded a scholarship to Lewis & Clark College and graduated in 1952. While at Lewis & Clark, he was a starting defensive back on the undefeated 1950 Conference Championship football team and was also the Northwest Conference champion in the 440, holding the record in that event. He was inducted into the Lewis & Clark Hall of Fame in 1983.
Francis, also known as Frank by his many friends, became one of the best-known custom home builders in the northwest after graduating. He was well known for his expertise in the home building trades while also lending a hand to his many friends when they needed him.
He was active with his church family at First United Methodist and was very involved with Habitat for Humanity, Christmas in April program helping build homes for the less fortunate and still found time to volunteer for Meals on Wheels.
He was quick with a smile and a laugh at the lighter things in life and whether times were good or bad he always expressed his faith by saying that “things are in God’s hands”. Now Francis is in God’s hands and while he will be missed by his family and friends, we know he is in good hands and with his “Sweetie Pie” Roberta and the family members that have gone before him. Francis Cox truly was a wonderful example of a life well-lived.
Francis was the last member of his immediate family to pass away. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Roberta; his son, Stephen Cox; as well as his sisters, June Steinfeld and Flora Newman; and his brothers, Dave, Don, Bill, and Vernon Cox.
Francis is survived by his son, Jeff Cox; and daughter, Nanci Birkes, her children, Jason, Troy, Tyler, Mandi, Chelsea, and their children respectively.
A Celebration of Life will be announced later.