Francis Fournier

Francis N. Fournier, 69
AUSTIN, TEXAS ââ?¬â?? Southbridge, MA
Francis N. Fournier, 69, formerly of Pomfret and Southbridge, died Sunday, July 27, in Austin, Texas at Austin's Inn at Pearl Street, after living successfully with a heart condition that began in 1991.
He grew up in the Southbridge, Ma. area and worked at American Optical. Francis was a pioneering Laser engineer who took the scientists' concepts and designed the machines to produce laser energy. All the laser operations and laser-based industries are rooted in his work.
He served with the Air Force in Washington, D.C. and Greenland. He enjoyed working in communications and with the native tribes people.
Francis brought a smile to everyone who met him as, like his father, he put all in good spirits and brought out the best in people. He fed stray cats, petted dogs left in backyards alone, and fetched cans down from the top shelf for petite older ladies.
He is survived by a sister, Janet Julian of Quinebaug, Ct., and a brother, George Fournier of Brimfield, Ma., and many loving and lovable cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Also a wife of 28 years, Janet MacDonald of Austin, Texas, soon to move back to the Quiet Corner of Ct. He was predeceased by a sister, Germaine Lemieux, of Southbridge, Ma.
Francis was born in Southbridge, Ma., to George Fournier Sr. and Germaine (Langlois) Fournier (both deceased).
To remember him pet a lonely cat or dog, save a Melmac dish from the landfill, or donate to the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
A graveside service will be held at St. Mary's Cemetery, Charlton Street in Southbridge, Ma. on Saturday, August 30, at 11:00. This will be followed by a gathering at the home of a Fournier family member.
An online guestbook is available at www.BelangerFuneralHome.com
Belanger-Bullard funeral Home, Southbridge is assisting the family