Francis Melvin Demotte

FRANCIS MELVIN DEMOTTE, age 91, of Lewisburg, Ohio, passed away on February 18, 2010 at Hospice of Dayton. Born on May 18, 1918 in Lewisburg, Ohio, he was the son of the late Howard Thomas & Mabel Elizabeth (Mt Castle) DeMotte. Francis was a world traveler, having lived, worked and visited more than 23 countries, during a long and successful career including 40 years as a personnel executive with the Bechtel Corporation. Francis was a 32nd degree member and past master of the Masonic Lodge in Manila, Philippines, and a Shriner. He was the oldest surviving male of the 1935 class of Lewisburg Union High School. An avid fisherman and card player throughout his life, he was an expert bridge player. Despite his far-flung travels and adventures, he was never far from his roots, and retired in his hometown of Lewisburg in 1990.

He was preceded by his wife of 55 years, Davida Ferrell DeMotte on January 25, 2010; brother, Doyle D. DeMotte in 2009; sister, Amy L. Hoke in 1996; brother-in-law, Carl F. Hoke in 1972.

He is survived by his son & daughter-in-law, Raymond "Ray" & Dolka DeMotte of Brookville, Ohio; daughter, Elizabeth DeMotte of Hong Kong; grandson, Francis DeMotte of Lewisburg, Ohio; granddaughter, Gabriella DeMotte; step grandson, Santiago; sister-in-law, Evelyn L. DeMotte of Lewisburg, Ohio; several nephews, nieces and cousins.

Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Friday, February 26, 2010 at the Lewisburg Word of Faith Church, 400 North Commerce Street, Lewisburg, Ohio 45338 with Pastor Justin Wiegand officiating.

Family will receive friends from 11:30 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. on Friday, February 26, 2010 at the Lewisburg Word of Faith Church. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family at Roselawn cemetery in Lewisburg, Ohio.

Arrangements entrusted to Barnes Funeral Home, 411 North Commerce Street, Lewisburg, Ohio 45338. Memorial Contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice. Online condolences may be sent to the family via the Web site at www.barnesfuneralhome.com