NEW BERLIN – Francis N. Daniels, 81, long-time resident of Halcottville, passed away unexpectedly on April 6, 2012, at his home.
Born in New Berlin in February of 1931, Francis was the son of Andrew and Rena Coy Daniels. Following his graduation from South New Berlin High School, he attended Delhi Tech, graduating in 1951. Fresh out of school, Francis enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country from June 25, 1951, through his honorable discharge on March 30, 1955. Francis returned home to begin his lengthy career as a self-employed stone mason and brick layer. Very well known in the area for the quality of his work, he operated the business, Daniels Masonry, for over 40 years, and was actively involved in the business at the time of his passing. His family joked that Francis had only three seasons: hunting, fishing, and trapping – all of which he enjoyed as often as he could.
Francis was a well loved and respected man whose family was his life. He and Loretta Brisack were married on June 28, 1959. As his children became old enough to work in the business, they became his right-hand helpers, and the business lost a valuable employee with the passing of Francis’ son, Mark, earlier in 2012. Francis is survived by his wife of 52 years, Loretta Daniels, and his son, Kip Daniels, all of Halcottsville; his brother, John Daniels, and sisters Joyce (Harry) Kott, and Norma (Ernest) Luoto; his mother-in-law, Hilda Brisack of Unadilla; his sisters-in-law, Carol (Fred) Currie, and Linda Thayer; brothers-in-law, David Brisack and Daniel (Val) Brisack; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and many friends.
Funeral services for Francis will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday from the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home. Interment will be at a later date in the Riverside Cemetery of South New Berlin. Friends are invited to call at the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home on Sunday from noon until the service at 1 p.m.