Francis A. Ordway, 83, of 6 Bay Edge Drive, Worcester, MA, died Wednesday March 12, in UMASS Memorial Medical Center-University Campus, 55 Lake Avenue, after an illness.

   He is survived by his wife, Holly MacLean-Ordway and his children, Francis E. Ordway of Ashland, Joseph Ordway, Paul Ordway of Framingham, Jean Blaisdell and Linda Ordway both of Natick, two brothers, Albert Ordway and Ronald Ordway, both of Natick, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Carol Klayer. Frank was born in Natick, the son of the late Truman and Helen A. (Doyle) Ordway.

   Frank proudly served in World War II, in the United States Marine Corps. He received the Purple Heart in the Iwo Jima Campaign in 1945.

   Upon returning from the service, he completed his education, graduating from Northeastern University in 1958. Frank dedicated his life to servicing the community in a long distinguished career, serving children, families and adults.

   Frank began as a social worker in Natick Welfare, became Director of Veteran's Service in Natick, then to become Director of Public Service in Wakefield. In 1960 his career turned to The Department of Youth Service, servicing children, in administrative positions at The Westfield Reception – Detention Center, The Worcester Reception Detention Center, Superintendent of Lyman School in Westboro, creator and Director of Wayside Union, a coed community based Treatment Center in Framingham, MA, State Coordinator for DYS and Public Welfare for Medicaid and Supplemental Security and finally at the Lancaster Pre-
Release Program.

   His extra curricular activities, concurrent with his career, , involved founding the Natick Senior Citizen's Club, member of the Natick School Committee, Chairman of The Natick Care Foods Crusade, Chairman of the Natick Council For the Aging and The Past Exalted Ruler of the Natick Lodge of Elks.

   Frank proudly served his country and community with deep dedication, devotion, and commitment.