Francis J. Istas passed away Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at Cloud County Health Center, Concordia, KS. He was born July 9, 1923 at Aurora, KS to Willis J. and Albia J. (Dugas) Istas.

Francis graduated from Aurora High School in 1941. He served his country in the United States Army during WWII. On January 13, 1948, Francis married Norma Lee Lewis in Aurora, KS. He was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Aurora, KS and the Knights of Columbus. Francis enjoyed farming, operating the Elevator and gardening.

Survivors include his daughters, Jean Istas, Aurora, KS, Diane (Ken) Taylor, Lincoln, IL; sons, Michael (Connie) Istas, Aurora, KS, Bill (Debbie) Istas, Aurora, KS, Tom Istas, Concordia, KS, Jerry (Pat) Istas, Manhattan, KS, Kenny (Cala) Istas, Augusta, KS, Roger (Allison) Istas, Nolensville, TN; 20 Grandchildren; 7 Great Grandchildren; and a sister, Bernadette Lambert, Concordia, KS. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and daughter Joan Istas.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Peter's Catholic Church, Aurora, KS on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 10:00 AM with Fr. Larry Letourneau officiating. Interment will be in the St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery, Aurora, KS. Vigil Services will be held at 6:30 PM Friday, January 28, 2011 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home. Memorials may be left to Meadowlark Hospice with the funeral home in charge. Visitation will be from 9 AM - 9 PM Friday with family greeting friends following vigil services until 8 PM at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home.