Francis Van Illsley - 86, of Kentville, passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2013 at home. Born in Lakeville, he was a son of the late Pern and Annie (VanBuskirk) Illsley. He had been employed for over 20 years with the Kings County Regional School Board. Francis also owned and operated a dump trucking business and worked for the Department of Transportation, from where he retired. He was a 38-year veteran of the Kentville Volunteer Fire Department. Francis was also a 40-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Kings Branch No. 6, Kentville and a member of the I.O.O.F. Hiawatha Lodge No. 57, Kentville. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, the former Ruth Kerr; two daughters, Barb (Russell) Jess, Kentville; Heather (Trevor) Misner, Sexsmith, Alberta; a sister, Jackie Russell, Kentville; two brothers, Harmon (Joyce), Kentville; John, Lakeville; four grandchildren, Ryan Jess, Kate, Kyler and Kegan Misner; a sister-in-law, Carthel Illsley; many special nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother-in-law, Bev Russell. Cremation has taken place. Visitation was held from 6-8 p.m. Sunday, March 31, 2013 in the White Family Funeral Home, Kentville, where a combined Royal Canadian Legion service and funeral service, followed by a reception, was held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, April 1, 2013, Reverend Doctor John McNally officiating. A private family interment will take place later. Family flowers only, by request. Donations in memory may be made to the Kentville Volunteer Fire Department. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville. On-line inquiries may be directed to www.whitefamilyfuneralhome.com.