from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Francis Meyer, 81, of Shreve, Ohio, died August 28, 2011, at his home.

He was born September 16, 1929, in Medina, the son of Thomas and Emma Bennett Meyer. In 1950 he married Virginia Simmerman who preceded him in death in 2004.

Mr. Meyer worked pipeline as a heavy equipment operator for Bernard prior to his retirement. He had previously worked construction for Wirt and Starn for many years. He was a veteran of the United States Army.

He loved raising horses which he had done for many years. He was also a former USTA member and was very active in the Standardbred racing at the Wayne County Fair in Wooster.

Mr. Meyer is survived by his children, Linda (Ted) Brinker and Nikki Parcell; stepchildren, Sonja (David) Tugend and Bonnie Mullins; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Ralph, Jennie Morris and Pat Jenkins. Along with his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Barbara; brother, Bernard; an infant sister, Jane; and a grandchild.