Francis, also known as Frank, was born in Boston, Massachusetts to Annie O’Connor Moran and Luke Moran. Frank graduated from Boston College High School in 1954 and Boston College in 1959 with a bachelor’s degree in management. Frank had a successful career at A.O. Smith Corporation and was a knowledgeable leader in the plumbing and heating industry.
Frank married Shirley Ann Silverman in Cranston, Rhode Island in 1964. Not only had Frank fallen in love with Shirley, but the charm of Skaneateles captivated him as well, and he built their home in the beautiful Borodino countryside overlooking the lake. Although enamoured by his new home, he never lost his love for the New England coastline. His family spent yearly vacations at the beach with extended family members and his lifelong friends.
Frank loved the outdoors and was often seen riding his bike, swimming, hiking, boating, cross country skiing, rowing, and snowshoeing on, in, and around his beloved Skaneateles Lake.
Always ready to give back to his community, Frank was a volunteer fireman for the Borodino Fire Department for 25 years and volunteered extensively for the American Red Cross as a blood courier. As a volunteer for the Catholic Charities’ Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), he drove cancer patients to their medical appointments in conjunction with the American Cancer Society, and found enjoyment volunteering at Delaware School in the Syracuse City School District, where he taught young children to learn to read. He also volunteered at the Samaritan Center in Syracuse distributing meals to the homeless and needy. Because of his dedication to helping others, Frank received the United Way’s Exceptional Community Volunteer Award in 2007.
Frank saved a historic house in Borodino by taking it upon himself to renovate it for future generations to enjoy. He was a leader in ensuring a veteran’s memorial was erected across the street from the house he had restored. He will be fondly remembered as always ready and willing to lend a helping hand to his neighbors in Borodino. Frank leaves behind a legacy felt by his community and his family.
One of Frank’s proudest accomplishments was being a devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He is survived by his loving daughters; Laura Moran of London, England and Kathy McCullen (William) of Acton, Massachusetts; six adoring grandchildren, Jessica Ortiz (Alan), Lillian Haber (Jason), Teresa Roy, Sydney, William, and Brendan McCullen; and three great grandchildren, Lucie, Millie, and Francine Ortiz.
Frank is also survived by his siblings; Mary Langley of Norwood, Massachusetts, Jane Aroian of Newton, Massachusetts, and Jack Moran (Donna) of Quincy, Massachusetts; and his brother-in-law John Kennedy of Medfield, Massachusetts. He was predeceased by his parents, his loving wife Shirley, his sisters Nancy Kennedy and Margaret Moran, his brother Paul Moran and his brothers-in-law, David Silverman, Henry Aroian, and Elmer Langley. He will be remembered by his numerous nieces and nephews as a loving and generous uncle.
Frank’s family would like to extend special gratitude to those who provided comfort and support during his time of need: the devoted staff of The Cottages at Garden Grove in Cicero, New York and Inspire Care of Central New York, as well as his loving team of caregivers, including his neighbors.
A closed service will be held with a celebration of life to follow at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Red Cross, or Samaritan Center of Syracuse, New York.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.