Francis Stephan Appel

Francis Stephan Appel, 94, of Millville, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. He was born October 2, 1929, in Rochester to Stephan and Helen (Shea) Appel. He attended Millville Public School and graduated from Plainview High School in 1948. Francis married the love of his life his high school sweetheart Joanne Schuchard on May 2, 1951, at the former St. John’s Catholic Church in Rochester. He proudly served his country in the US Marine Corp during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953.
Francis lived his lifetime in Millville and was a pillar of the community, where he served as a former Mayor and always cared about all the people of the community. He owned and operated Appels Service in Millville for 50 years, retiring in 1998. He enjoyed spending time going fishing, hunting, and playing cards, but his main hobby was his work. He and Joanne spent 30 years camping at the Ponderosa Campground, and after retiring they spent many years wintering in Las Vegas. Francis especially loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and friends. He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church – West Albany, Millville American Legion Post #579, Elgin Lions, Lake City Knights of Columbus, and Korean Veterans Group.
Francis is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Joanne Appel of Millville; four daughters, Geri (Al) Kasper of Pierz, MN, Lisa (Jeff) Sprick of Lake City, Therese (Ed) Jacobs of Plainview, and Amy (Pete Anderson) Appel of Elgin; two sons, David (Patricia) Appel of Millville, and Curtis (Nancy) Appel of Plainview; nine grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and three step-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Ellen Stelling of Rochester, and Monica (David) Brockway of Pine Island. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Paul, a sister Grace, and a brother Edward.
The Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, November 21, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church – West Albany in rural Millville with Father Thé Hoag and Father Joe Pete officiating. Burial will follow the service in St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery with Military Rites by the Millville American Legion Post #579. Friends and family may visit from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 20, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church – West Albany and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church. Memorials are preferred.
Arrangements entrusted to Schleicher Funeral Homes, Plainview Chapel, the guest register may be signed at www.schleicherfuneralhomes.com