2024 Légion d'Honneur Inductees
Leo Francis
Clair C Naveau
Delbert "Doc" Francis, Jr.
Francis Manufacturing Company, Co-Founder
Francis Products, Founder
(sold to Clopay Corporation)
WWII Veteran
United States Marine Corps – 1941-1945
Battle of Guam – Purple Heart
Catholic War Veterans Post 661, Charter Member
Knights of Columbus, 1954 Charter Member
First Mayor of Russia, 1969-1994
Russia Fire Department Volunteer, Charter Member
Provided first contribution to establish Russia Park
Leader in incorporating Russia with
the State of Ohio in 1967
Instrumental in paving Borchers St. & Voisard St.
Superintendent, Russia Local School 1950-1984
Principal, Athletic Director 1950-1977
Led three school building projects
Led effort to save school from consolidation
Established Russia Local School Band
Encouraged students to pursue higher education
Philanthropic Contributions
Clair and Jeanne Naveau Family Scholarship
Francis Schulze Company, Co-owner & President
United States Army 1951 – 1954
St. Remy Parish Council & Russia Civic Assoc.
Catholic War Veterans & American Legion
Knights of Columbus
Shelby County AAA Motor Club Board Member
USPS Rural Mail Carrier (1953-1979)
Philanthropic Contributions:
Doc & Hilda Francis Family Fndn. & Scholarship Fund
Russia Activity Center – Diamond Sponsor
Russia Village Park, Pavilion & Splash Pad
Wilson Memorial Hospital Fndn. & Hospice Care
Spiritual Center of Maria Stein Retreat House
Russia Wellness Foundation
St. Remy Parish and Community Center
Russia Local School
Softball, Baseball & Running Track Facilities