Francis J. Walsh, 84, of Manchester, died February 18, 2010. He was born in Manchester February 21, 1925 and was the son of Richard J. and Elizabeth (Moher) Walsh. He received his early education at St. Raphael Grammar School and graduated from West High School. He was a US Navy veteran, serving aboard the USS Ranger during World War II. On April 27, 1946 he married Jacqueline Vincent and together they raised six children.
In 1965 Frank started his family business, Frank’s Signs, and he remained involved until his passing. He was a charter member of the NH Sign Association.
Frank was a member of the League of A Thousand Men at the Precious Blood Monastery, a duty he faithfully fulfilled for over 40 years. He and Jackie were devoted and active members of St. Anne’s Parish for over 50 years. In 1968 they joined United Commercial Travelers of America, an organization that became a central part of their lives. Over the next 40 years, Frank held various offices in UCT, including Grand Councilor of New England. He and Jackie enjoyed attending the various visitations, often dancing into the late evenings. Frank was a longtime member of the Board of Directors for the Chris Antonelli New England Scholarship Fund, which gives financial help to those seeking education in the field of intellectual disabilities. He was a member of the American Legion Henry J. Sweeney Post No. 2. Most recently he was a member of the William J. Shanahan division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and thoroughly enjoyed marching in the various St. Patrick’s Day parades.
In addition to spending time with his family and many friends, Frank enjoyed a good game of golf and a good cup of coffee.
Frank was predeceased by his beloved Jackie, his wife of nearly 63 years, in December 2008. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Richard and Emmett, and his sister, Mae. He is survived by his six children and their spouses: Dennis and Denise Walsh, Kathy and Jeff Masse, Debbie and Mike Korek, Jim and Yolande Walsh, Steve and Nica Walsh and Greg and Susan Walsh. He also leaves 17 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Kenny Walsh and wife Mary, sisters-in-law Pauline Frechette, Lorraine Kouletsis and Constance Powel, many nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog, Ranger.
A funeral mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at St. Pius X Church, Candia Road, Manchester. Burial was in the New Hampshire Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Chris Antonelli New England Scholarship Fund, United Commercial Travelers of America, c/o Ernest LaPlante, 1 Ventry Drive, Cumberland, RI 02864.