Francis Joseph Kohn (known to his family as Buster), born on November 28, 1948, in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Francis E. Kohn and Marjorie Kohn, passed away peacefully at his
daughter Amber’s home in Abilene, Texas, on August 16, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was 77 years old.
As the eldest of six boys, Francis grew up in Westfield, Wisconsin, where he went to school and
graduated from Westfield High School in 1966. He celebrated his 60th high school reunion this
summer, a testament to the friendships and community he valued throughout his life. He moved
to Park Falls, Wisconsin, in 1973 after his United States Army service in the Vietnam War. In
December of 1975 he welcomed his firstborn child, Zachary Francis and in 1978 his daughter,
Amber Dona.
A proud U.S. Army combat veteran, Francis served in the Vietnam War where he received a
Purple Heart, embodying courage and resilience. He was a dedicated family man, leaving
behind his beloved children: Zachary Francis Kohn (Christi) of Midland, TX, and Amber Dona
Staggs (Mason) of Abilene, TX. He also cherished his stepchildren, Tracy (Rick) Steckling of
Neenah, WI, James“Bo” (Cathy) Heinske of Portland, TN and Jacci (Tracey) Barrow of
Springfield, TN.
Francis was a devoted husband to his wife of 27 years, Judy Kohn, with whom he shared 35
years of love before her passing on April 27, 2026. Together they shared a life filled with love,
laughter, a little banter, and a love for nature and animals. Their most recent fur baby, Bingo,
survives them both and remains as a testament to his love for animals, particularly dogs.
An outdoor enthusiast, Francis had a profound respect for nature, which he passed on to his
children and grandchildren. His favorite escapes included camping at Boulder Lake near Antigo,
Wisconsin, where he would wake his children, and later his grandchildren, with his token phrase
“Daylight in the swamp!” He also loved the serene shores of Little Girls Point on Lake Superior,
where he created lasting memories with his children and grandchildren.
Francis was a one-of-a-kind individual, unashamedly true to himself. Known for his generosity,
he believed in the importance of kindness, especially when it came to tipping his bartenders and
wait staff. His green thumb flourished in his garden, where he created unique landscapes,
including a koi pond with a whimsical waterfall he dubbed “Kickbutt Falls.” He also built a tree
fort, fulfilling a lifelong dream of having his own treehouse.
Francis was an avid foodie and self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur. His favorite pizza spot was
The Birches, and he made sure to take his kids and grandkids there every time they visited him.
His favorite restaurant to celebrate any occasion or just for a good meal was Northwoods
Supper Club, where he was well known to the owners and waitstaff and always greeted by
name when he walked in the door.
Music was a significant part of Francis’s life. He enjoyed the works of John Prine, The Grateful
Dead, Bob Dylan, and Willie Nelson, and even dabbled in songwriting and guitar playing
himself. When his grandchildren Moorea and Levi would visit, he enjoyed playing guitar around
the campfire at Hines Park and would be sure to show them all the best spots for fishing and
outdoor adventures around Park Falls
He loved storytelling and having his kids and grandkids come and stay with him. He enjoyed
many extended summer visits with his 2 grandkids Alexander Wood “The Dude” and Elocin
Kohn “Elbow”. He had a special relationship with his granddaughter Alexandra Patterson
“Worm”, also known as “Bait,” in the summer months. He loved sharing the story of how he
came up with all of their nicknames to anybody that would listen. He loved telling his
granddaughter Kaitlin that she has her Great Grandma Kohn’s dimples and beautiful brown
eyes.
Francis was preceded in death by his wife Judith Amy Kohn, his parents, Francis E. Kohn and
Marjorie Kohn; his brothers Thomas Kohn and James Kohn; and his grandson Joseph Wood.
He is survived by his three younger brothers, Brian (Jennifer) Kohn, Patrick (Gail) Kohn, and
Timothy (Darlene) Kohn. In addition to his children, stepson, and stepdaughters, he leaves
behind 12 grandchildren and one great-grandson, Owen Downing, and numerous nieces,
nephews, cousins, and friends.
Francis was a dedicated member of the Wisconsin Vietnam Veterans Association, serving as
state chapter president for many years. His contributions included playing a vital role in
revamping Hines Park and the restoration and relocation of the Old Abe statue, a symbol of
honor and remembrance. He worked for many years at the paper mill’s steam plant before
transitioning to Pixley and Crowley Dam. After retirement, he and Judy founded Flambeau Cab,
where he proudly dubbed himself the “Crabby Cabby.”
Diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer on June 15, 2026, Francis fought valiantly, expressing his
desire to live forever. His final weeks were spent in Texas, creating cherished memories with his
children, grandchildren and great-grandson, Owen, and relishing in the love of his family. He
was surrounded by his family that loved him dearly when he passed peacefully.
Francis Joseph Kohn will be remembered not just for his resilience and kindness, but also for
his love and unabashed opinions he shared with everyone he encountered. His spirit lives on in
the hearts of his family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held at Hines Park in Park Falls, Wisconsin, on Saturday, October 3,
- Additionally, a graveside Internment with full military honors will be held at Fifield
Cemetery (times to be determined for both). He had a particular fondness for the color purple,
with 90% of his wardrobe consisting of purple shirts. The family asks that you come wearing
purple to honor Francis.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to the Vietnam Veterans of
America at vva.org, or that a tree be planted to honor his legacy.
Birch Street Funeral Service is assisting the family.
www.birchstreetfuneralservice.com
