O’BRIEN , Frances Coates “Fran” O’Brien

Never one to miss a party, Fran celebrated her 96th birthday on August 1st (and 2nd) surrounded by more than 36 members of her immediate family. Just a few weeks later, she suffered a stroke and passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025.

Born in Chatham, Ontario, Fran was the youngest daughter of Dorothy and Frank Nicholson. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Harold O’Brien (1995) and her son-in-law Rob Rankin (1991). Fran is survived by her six children: Linda O’Brien (David Glaser), Jerry O’Brien (Maria), Kevin O’Brien (Jan), Shawn O’Brien (Carol), Erin Rankin Nash (David Nash), and Michael O’Brien (Angela); 15 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was also predeceased by her brother Ed Nicholson and sister Dorothy Frolick, and is survived by her sister Helen Glassco.

In high school, Fran volunteered as a Junior Farmerette during WWII and later graduated from the University of Guelph. After graduation, while at an ice cream parlor, she met the love of her life—Harold. Together, they built an incredible life filled with travel and the joy of raising six children.

In 1960, Fran and Harold purchased a cottage in Erieau, next to the Erieau Yacht Club. There, Harold shared his love of sailing with their children and their friends, while Fran mastered the art of stretching a meal to feed the inevitable extra guests at the table. Erieau became the heart of family life and continues to be the gathering place for the annual “Franfest,” a cherished tradition which her family will continue in her honour.

In 1968, Fran was named “Mother of the Year.” Her children suspect it was for the sheer number of children she had rather than her ability to manage six boisterous personalities—though according to family lore, they were always perfect angels.

Fran dedicated more than fifty years to volunteering in her community through organizations such as May Court and Junior Achievement. Her contributions were recognized with the John Bradley Award, the Junior Achievement Award, and others.

Fran and Harold had many wonderful friends in Chatham. After Harold’s passing, Fran’s love of travel continued, leading to many adventures with close friends. She was the last surviving member of the “Fabulous Five.”

Ahead of her time, Fran was a tireless advocate in the 1960s and 70s. With her friend Joan Smilie, she established breakfast programs to ensure children had food before school and helped start the first daycare programs in Chatham to support working mothers. She championed women’s rights, ensuring they had access to the support and resources they needed. She was also unwavering in her love and support for her beloved nephew Don and his choice of whom to love.

Through her compassion, generosity, and example, Fran was a role model to her children and community, showing what it means to live a life of service, commitment, and loyalty. Fran’s life was truly well lived.

For the past eight years, Fran often asked, “Where’s Harold?” We hope she now has her answer as she joins him once again for cocktail hour.

The family is deeply grateful for the kindness and sense of community Fran experienced during her seven years at Manor Village, and for the exemplary care provided by the Hyperacute Stroke Clinic and the Palliative Care Team at University Hospital in London.

A Visitation will be held at Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S., Chatham from 4–7 pm on Sunday, August 24, 2025.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church, 145 Victoria Ave., Chatham on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the May Court Club of Chatham or the Hyperacute Stroke Clinic at University Hospital.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home.