Toledo Speedway

Francis “Fran” Harden of Wayne, MI passed away October 2, 2015 at the age of 81.  “Frantic Fran” was a top Late Model competitor at both Flat Rock and Toledo Speedways in the 1960’s and 1970’s, driving for car owner Reed Bolick in the #54.

Fran attended several races each year after his driving career ended and was a frequent visitor to the Racer’s Reunion events in March and during the season at both tracks.  Fran competed at tracks throughout Michigan and Ohio, in addition to Flat Rock and Toledo.  He collected 4 wins at both tracks during his career.

Fran was an outstanding mechanic and worked in his shop after retiring from Ford Motor Company after 33 years.  He had owned Fran’s Motorcycle Shop in Wayne.

He is survived by a daughter, Vicky Emerson, and sons Mark and Mike Harden; fiance’ Carol; sisters Darlene Willis and Marguerite and brother Don; 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his wife Judith and son Matthew Harden.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 7 from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home, 980 N. Newburgh Road (between Ford and Cherry Hill), Westland, MI.  Services will be held Thursday at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home.  Interment will be at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holland, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Penrickton Center of Blind Chilrden, 26530 Eureka Road, Taylor, MI  48180-9972.