Len France

Len Lee France Sr, age 68, passed away peacefully at his home in Lincoln, North Dakota, on July 2, 2025, surrounded by love and comfort.

Mathew 25 was his favorite portion of the Bible. Strengthening relationships, bringing alive your commitment to serve the least of those who are marginalized or in need in your community and the world around us.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Bismarck Funeral Home. Speaking about his life will be Mike Howe, Officiating will be Doug Maier. 

Born on September 25, 1956, Len lived a life defined by humility, gratitude, and deep devotion to both family and country. On October 1, 1997, he married the love of his life, Kimberly Ann Pollard. Together, they created a family full of love, built a home full of warmth, laughter, and treasured memories. He was so devoted that when he retired in December of 2021, he poured all of himself to take care of his beloved wife. 

He worked as a master mechanic at numerous shops, including Scott Petersons of Belle Fourche, SD, Performance One of Lead, SD, and Northland Performance of Bismarck, ND.

Len had an exceptional gift for working with his hands and was happiest when tinkering in the garage, inventing, and working on vehicles. A devoted Harley rider, he found freedom and peace on the open road. Won many awards for building motorcycles. He also has built and helped others build many types of Rat Rods. Known for his unique ability to see purpose in everything, he never threw anything away—because in his eyes, everything had value.

 A proud and decorated veteran, Len’s service in the U.S. Navy was marked by distinction. He got his nickname “Layback” in the Navy. He said his longest single duration on a submarine was 9 months straight! He served from 1974 until he was honorably discharged in 1981, on the “Gold Crew”. He was a helmsman and a planesman. His awards include the Military Outstanding Service Medal, signifying his expertise and commitment in the silent service, the prestigious Dolphin Award for extensive training and qualification aboard submarines, and the Quilts of Valor Award, among many others. During 1979 until 1984 he was also President of the motorcycle club, ABATE: A Brotherhood Aimed Towards Education. He helped with the motorcycle helmet laws in South Dakota.

Len was also an avid football fan and proudly cheered on his Denver Broncos every season. Above all, Len was a family man—genuinely kind, deeply humble, and endlessly caring. He never missed an opportunity to say please or thank you, and he always placed his loved ones before himself.

Len is survived by his beloved wife, Kimberly Ann; his children, Danielle (Jordan), Michelle, Heather (Danny), Len Jr., and Lilly; grandchildren, Atom, Alanzo, Lilia, and Lennon; his brother, Rex (Connie); his sisters; JoLynn (Roy), Ronda (Larry), Lisa (Jody), and Heidi (Matt); and many dear friends, extended family, and acquaintances. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd Lee France and Joanne Marie; his brother, Greg; and his niece, Melissa.

Len’s spirit will live on in the lives he touched. His legacy is one of unwavering love, quiet strength, and honorable service—and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

One of Len’s last requests was that anyone attending his celebration of life, wear Denver Bronco attire!