Francis P. Datena, 90, of Elkhart, died on Monday, August 19, 2024, at Greenleaf Healthcare Center in Elkhart.

Francis was born April 28, 1934, in Frankfort, NY to the late Frank and Mary (Frank) Datena.  He was also preceded in death by two brothers, George and John Datena and five sisters: Josephine Mathews, Donna Cory, Ann Recchio, Nancy Orban and Rose Kovach.

He married Norma J. Hooley on November 28, 1977.  She survives along with a sister-in-law, Violet Datena of Elkhart and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Francis moved to Elkhart with his family in 1942.  He graduated from St. Vincent School and later Elkhart High School in 1953.  Upon graduation, he served in the United States Army from 1954-1956.  He then went on to graduate from Ball State University in 1960.  Francis and his brother George started Datena Construction and for many years was involved with the company.  He later took a position as purchasing agent for Kemberly, retiring in 1995.  He attended St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church and was a life member of the Italian American Relief Association (I.A.R.A.).  Francis also enjoyed playing golf, but he really enjoyed singing.  He sang while a student at St. Vincent Elementary School as well as in the church choir.

In 1972, then Elkhart mayor Pete Sarantos, appointed Francis to the Elkhart County Park Board and served until 1982.  During this time, he served as chariman of the board from 1975-1977.  During his tenure, the board developed Oxbow Park, Bonneville Mill Park and the Elkhart County River Preserve.

Visitation for Francis will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2024, from 5 pm until 7 pm at the Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home.  Friends may also call Friday from 10 am until 11 am at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church where the Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 am.  The Rev. Craig Borchard will officiate and burial will be in St. Vincent Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent Catholic School, St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church or Elara Caring Hospice

St. Vincent Catholic School
1114 South Main Street, Elkhart IN 46516

St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church
1108 S. Main Street, Elkhart IN 46516

Elara Caring Hospice
2515 Bendix Drive Suite 100, South Bend IN 46628