Steven J. Francis,71, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 22, 2024, in his beloved Elyria. He leaves behind a loving family: wife Mary Ann (nee: Szulewski), daughters, Morgan Szulewski-Francis and Kendall (nee: Szulewski-Francis) (Enrique) Patino; brothers, Martin (Kelly) and Rafael (Sandy) Francis. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. When Steve crossed, he was greeted by his parents Victor and Marilyn (nee: Hanley) Francis, stepmother Gladys (nee: Berro) Francis, and brothers Daniel and Christopher Francis.

Born in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania on July 6, 1952, he spent his early years in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, PA. Steve had an exciting childhood, some would even say he was a bit of a rascal. He was able to travel with his father and his brother Marty, to LaPlata, Argentina in 1966 for his father's work, and had the privilege of attending St. George's College boarding school in Quilmes for his high school years; an experience that profoundly changed his life for the better by helping him discover his loveof architecture. He was an excellent sportsman and excelled in rugby, track and field, and equestrianism. According to his towering "little brother" Marty, he was a protector of not only him, but all the younger children, and was described by the headmaster as one of the most accomplished students.

In 1970 he attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where he studied Architecture to obtain his BA; the intersection of art and engineering was his passion. He could easily take hundreds of pictures of art and buildings he admired and would knock on the door of every Frank Lloyd Wright house he came across. At Miami University he met his wife of 48 years, Mary Ann, making them a "Miami Merger" – a couple that kisses under "the arch" and marries. Post graduation, Steve and Mary Ann moved to Lakewood, Ohio to start their life as newlyweds, and Steve, his first job at an architecture firm.

Steve blossomed from day one, quickly advancing to lead the design-and-build division for large commercial projects, some globally. He was highly respected, revered, and loved by all – especially the young architects he found joy in mentoring.

He could often be found at Elyria Country Club, sitting by the pool, practicing his golf game, or admiring the additions he personally helped design. A proud member for 30+ years, he was frequently called the "Mayor of the Pool" – holding court in his chair at the south end and offering a warm handshake, hello, hug, or smile to anyone who needed one. He was generous with a laugh and quick with a cheer – especially when rooting for his beloved Steelers in the Grill Room.

To know Steve was to love him – he made it easy.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers and other condolences, please consider a donation to the Lorain County Historical Society, if you are a history lover, ( www.lchs.org or mail to 284 Washington Ave, Elyria, OH 44035) or to Jaspers Mewvment, if you are an animal lover, ( PayPal@Kullrich12@gmail.com , 440.670.7020).

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria, OH.