Francis Conlan

          It is with deep love and great sadness that we announce the passing of Francis “Frank” Conlan, aged 69, in Woodstock, Ontario.  He passed away on the 49 year anniversary of him immigrating to Canada.

          Born in Scotland, Frank began his working life as a welder in the Govan shipyards before moving to Canada in the 1970s.  He built a new life here, enjoying time as a young lad with the Woodstock Stallions, and spending over 30 years working with General Motors in Woodstock, where he formed many lasting friendships and shared countless laughs with his colleagues.

          When Frank loved something, he went all in.  Whether it was computers, curry, golf clubs, or tropical fish, he dove in headfirst, became an expert, and then shared his knowledge with others.  Known for his sharp wit, unmatched skill in the kitchen, legendary swearing, and his signature ability to complain and crack jokes in equal measure,  Frank brought humour and heart into every room he entered.

          His family will fondly remember his cackling laugh, his colourful storytelling, his creative use of curse words, his hilarious misremembering of words—like insisting alpacas were called “pacoos”—and even his “talented” farting.  A lifelong fan of Glasgow Rangers, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Toronto Blue Jays, Frank’s passion for sports was second only to his love for family.

          Frank will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Ann; his children, Graeme (Melissa) and Kelly (Ryan) his grandchildren, Spencer, Owen, Layla, Dakota, John, and Karlee; and his great-grandchildren, Stirling, Benson, Izzy, Olivia, Emerson, Ryker, Reign, and Kiara.  He will also be dearly missed by his sister, Anne Hughes (Billy), his nieces, nephews, cousins, and all extended family across the Conlan, Docherty, Hughes, Turner, Manias, Owens, McCauley, Devlin, Wallace, McKenna and Donnan families.  He was predeceased by his sister, Carol Docherty, his brother-in-law, Henry Docherty, his parents, Annie (née McKenna) and Francis Conlan, and his parents-in-law, Margaret (née Ready) and Jim Owens.  

          Frank’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all who supported Frank and the family during these difficult past few months. Every gesture, no matter how small or large, meant more than words can express. 

          A Celebration of Life will take place at the Woodstock Navy Club on Sunday November 9, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. — just one day before what would have been Frank’s 70th birthday.  Friends and family are welcome to come together to not only celebrate the remarkable life he lived, but also to honour the milestone birthday he so dearly hoped to reach.  He will be cherished with love, laughter, and gratitude by all who knew him.  In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honour Frank in your own way—by cheering on Rangers, raising a glass, or enjoying a good laugh in his name.

Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock, Ontario has been entrusted with Final Arrangements.  Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared here at www.wareingcremation.ca