John Howard Frances, born on March 17, 1948, in Toronto, Ontario, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2023, in Brooks, Alberta, after a brief battle with cancer. The son of Harold and Margaret Frances, both deceased, he was the second oldest of eight children. Having been predeceased by brothers Harold and Tom, John’s remaining siblings Laurie, Cathy, Joe, Terry, and Sheryl will forever remember him.
On November 5, 1983, John married Brenda, the love of his life, becoming a devoted husband and a loving father to Judy (Kevin) Hubert, Jackie Frances(Cameron Fleury), and Ethan (Savannah) Frances. As a grandpa to Joshua Hubert, Jayme Hubert, Johnie-Lynn Frances, and Atlan Frances, great-grandpa to Carter Benson and Cameryn Benson, he will also be remembered as an uncle, brother, and friend.
John’s youth was spent in Sand Lake, Ontario, before the family moved to British Columbia. Choosing to stay in Ontario with his brother Harold, John joined the Air Force for a brief period. Later, he attended George Brown College, embarking on a successful career as a journeyman carpenter until the late 1990s. His diligent work ethic carried him through various roles at several companies, including All Test International (All-West X-Ray), ArcLine Construction, and DaPaJo Construction. He retired numerous times before finally sticking with it in 2018; his passion for work was undeniable.
A fighter at heart, John triumphed over an 18-month prognosis, undergoing a stem cell transplant in 2008 that gifted him 16 ‘new birthdays.’ His friendly nature allowed him to form many cherished friendships, especially during his eight years as a snowbird in Arizona.
Known for seeking out babies to snuggle, being a lover of pickleball, and having a penchant for dry jokes that brought smiles to many faces (though perhaps not to all waiters and waitresses), John’s kindness and dry humor will be sorely missed.
John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and humor that will continue to resonate with those who were fortunate enough to know him. His zest for life, unwavering work ethic, and affectionate nature will forever be remembered by his family, friends, and all who crossed his path.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the medical staff for their compassionate care. A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at Thom’s Funeral Home and Reception Center. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to Prairie Rose Hospice Palliative Care Society, 440 3 St E, Brooks T1R 1B3. For further information, to light a memorial candle or to leave a message of sympathy, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403) 501-1010.
