Francis “Buzz” Henry Mason, 89, of Ideal, died Thursday, July 12, in Prairie View Healthcare Community in Woonsocket.

A memorial service was held July 14 at the Ideal Presbyterian Church. Arrangements were by Mason Funeral Home in Winner.

Francis “Buzz” Henry Mason was born September 29, 1928, in Tripp County. He was the son of William “Hank” Henry Mason and Ival (Lenker) Mason. He graduated from Colome High School.

In 1946, Buzz joined the U.S. Army. He served in the Panama Canal Zone until he separated from the Army in 1949. Buzz was immensely proud of his honorable military service.

Buzz married Janice McMacken in Tripp County in 1952. Over the years Buzz worked as a farmer, mechanic, feed salesman, master plumber and manager of the Davison County Rural Water System. While living in Ideal, he was active in the Ideal Presbyterian Church and Ideal School. Buzz was also involved in the VFW, American Legion and the Shriners.

He is survived by his current wife, Ellen Ann; sons, Danny and Francis A. Mason; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Buzz was preceded in death by his parents, Hank and Ival Mason; brothers, Bill and Ted; sisters, Wanda and Clarice; first wife, Janice; and second wife, Phyllis.