A Galesburg native known for his bowling achievements and a passion for aviation has died.
Francis E “Sid” Cisco of Naples, Florida, formerly of Galesburg, died Sunday, March 16. He was 69.
A 1973 Galesburg High School graduate, Cisco was remembered for his kind, free-spirited personality and lifelong love of flying. His aviation journey began in 1971 with his first lesson at Galesburg Airport, leading him to pilot planes across locations like Peoria, Albany, New York, Naples, Florida, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, and other Caribbean islands. A proud milestone came on November 7, 2024, when he completed his bucket list by landing in all 50 states, with Hawaii as his final stop.
Obituary: Francis E. “Sid” Cisco: June 25, 1955 ~ March 16, 2025
Beyond flying, Cisco excelled as a bowler, boasting multiple 300 games and 800 series. He also enjoyed golf, big game hunting, sport fishing, boating, and snow skiing. Professionally, he owned several businesses, including F.E.C. Aviation Services, which he operated until his death.
During his time in Galesburg, he served as president of the Soangetaha Country Club for several years, achieved lifetime membership in Masonic Alpha Lodge No. 155, as well as Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, and was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association of America.
He is survived by brothers George (Tracy) Cisco of Kansas City, Missouri, and Roger (Kathy) Cisco of Geneva, Illinois; half-sister Deeann Cisco of Beaumont, Texas; stepdaughter Sara (Ken) Whelan of California; three grandchildren; and many friends and associates.
A celebration of life will be from 4-6 p.m., Thursday, June 19, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Home Galesburg Chapel.