It is with heavy hearts that the family of Francis E “Sid” Cisco announces his passing on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the age of 69. Sid was born to Haldene and Cleora (Keithley) Cisco on June 25, 1955, in Galesburg, IL. He graduated from Galesburg High School in the Class of 1973.
Sid and Karen Olmstead joined in marriage on February 21, 1987, however, she preceded him in death in 2002. He was a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, stepfather, cousin, son-in-law, brother-in-law, and friend to many. He is survived by his two brothers, George and Tracy Cisco of Kansas City, MO, and Roger and Kathy Cisco of Geneva, IL; his half-sister Deeann Cisco of Beaumont, TX; his stepdaughter Sara and Ken Whelan of California, three grandchildren; and numerous friends and associates.
He was known for his kind and free-spirited nature and his love of flying. His passion for flying began in 1971 after his first flying lesson at the Galesburg Airport, and he dedicated much of his life to his love for aviation, piloting in such locations as Peoria, IL, Albany, NY, Naples, FL, and numerous other flights that included the Dominican Republic, Barbados and Caribbean Island locales. One of his proudest accomplishments was completing the final item on his bucket list – landing in all 50 States, which he achieved with a landing in Hawaii on November 7, 2024.
Sid also enjoyed golf, big game hunting, sport fishing, boating, snow skiing and was an accomplished bowler – with multiple 300 games and 800 series to his name. An entrepreneur at heart, Sid owned and operated various businesses at several points in his life including F.E.C. Aviation Services, which was in operation at the time of his passing.
He was an active member of Faith Bible Church in Naples, Florida, and drew much comfort from his time spent in fellowship with Pastor Justin Harris and church friends. 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. Within the fields of aviation and firearms, Sid was awarded and achieved numerous certifications from organizations specializing in those industries.
Sid will be dearly missed by his family and friends as well as all those that had the good fortune to know him. The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude to Dan Murfin, Jeremy and Kim Eyman, and Cheryl Brock, for their unwavering love and care for Sid in his final days. We also wish to thank Avow Hospice and Palliative Care of Naples, for their kind and caring support to Sid, his family, and friends during this difficult time.
In accordance with Sid’s wishes, a celebration of life visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 pm, Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Home Galesburg Chapel. We invite all to join us in sharing fond memories of Sid. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com
