Dec. 25, 1931 – Oct. 1, 2024
After a long and fulfilling life Frank passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. He is reunited with his beloved wife of 56 years, Joyce (nee Crawford) (d.2014) as well as his parents Frank and Hannah (nee Ellis). Adored father of Barry (Sylvia), Karen Fortin (Gator) and Marcia (Carl). Special father figure to Gail Cameron (Gary) and Scott Crawford (Diane). Loving Papa of Christine Meyer (William), Michael Fortin (Marina), Lauren (Chris), Carly (Aaron), Kyna (Ryan) and Piper. Great grandfather and baby whisperer of Evelyn, Hugh, Adela, Elwyn and Lincoln. Dear brother of Bill (Mary). Frank will be fondly remembered by the Leblanc family as well as many nieces, nephews, nieces extended family and friends.
Fascinating Frank from Foleyet was a joker. He grew up in Schumacher, which was often the subject of his stories and history lessons about the depression, the war, the mines, The McIntyre Arena, hockey players, figure skaters and the supporting cast of characters that he was blessed with.
Frank met the love of his life Joyce in Foleyet. Together they moved their family to Blind River in 1963. He joined the MNR, and continued living life, surrounded with a new set of characters.
Frank came to life and was happiest when he was spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a great helper often working in the background passing tools, barbecuing, supervising construction projects and stood rock solid for his children when dealing with life challenges.
He danced, curled, told jokes and stories, listened to music, volunteered his time, sipped fine scotches, loved, laughed, joked around and sang “Yellow Submarine” from one century into the next. Frank left a lasting impression on those around him.
The family wishes to thank the Bayshore and Care Partner nurses and PSW’s for the kindness shown to our father. They also want to thank Dr. Shamas and Dr. Sibbald for their many years of professional care as well as Dr. Snajdrova and Dr. Jeeves and the staff at NSHN-Blind River for the support and compassion shown to our father and family in his final days.
Donations in memory of Frank can be made to a charity of your choice and are appreciated by the family.
Family and friends are invited to visit at Menard Funeral Home, 72 Lakeside Avenue Blind River between 7pm and 9pm on Thursday, Oct. 24. Funeral service will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church, 25 Centre Street on Friday, Oct. 25, beginning at 11 a.m. Reverend Lawrence Muvunzi officiating.