O'GRADY, Francis 'Frank' Michael - (February 26, 1957 – December 5, 2020) With a great deal of sadness in our hearts, we share the passing of Frank at his home on Saturday, December 5, 2020.
Predeceased by his parents Margaret and Denis O’Grady and dear brother Noel.
Born in Toronto, February 26, 1957, Frank led a spirited and active school life at St. Michael’s Choir School in Toronto. A talented musician from an early age, playing both the piano and organ, while also singing in the school choirs. Frank and his brothers were competitive Irish dancers.
He received Canada Council grants to attend the Julliard School of Music in New York City, graduating with a Bachelor of Music degree. He was a very accomplished musician, winning many accolades over the years. Upon returning from New York, Frank returned to his roots and taught at St. Michael’s Choir School.
Over the years he performed organ music at many churches around the GTA. His last and favourite church was Our Lady of Perpetual Help where he reconnected with his former teacher and mentor Peter Daly and met an ardent music champion in Monsignor Jim Hannah. Among his favourite memories was his 60th birthday party attended by current and former members of the OLPH choirs and his very special friends Michelle and Darya.
Frank is survived by his brother John (Mary), his nephew Patrick O’Grady (Shirley) and their children Declan and Isla and his niece Jennifer Ladouceur (Chris) and their children Colson and Noelle. Francis communicated regularly with our Irish relatives John, Ameing, Michael and Eileen Maguire; Kathleen and Patrick O’Dwyer; Ken and Maureen Maguire.
The care provided by the staff of Toronto East General Hospital during Frank’s battle with stage 4 colon cancer was extraordinary. In particular, we would like to thank Dr. Jing Li, Dr. Kevin Yoong, Dr. Kevin Workentin, Dr. J. Soni and Sue McKechnie. A very special thank you to Heather Foster who changed Frank’s life for the better in so many ways.
A fitting tribute and celebration of Frank’s life awaits his family and friends on the other side of the pandemic. To honour Frank’s thoughtfulness and his kindness to others (especially his very well chosen greeting cards for all occasions), contributions to your favourite charity would be appreciated in lieu of flowers.
Due to Covid we are limited to immediate family but we will be streaming Frank’s funeral service celebrated by Monsignor Hannah at 11am on Friday December 11th. Contact Rosar-Morrison Funeral Home, Toronto at 416-924-1408 for information on how to access the stream or playback to see the service.
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