Obituary of Francis Edward Gilbride

With great sadness the Gilbride family announces the passing of Francis Edward Gilbride on May 17, 2012 at Bobby’s Hospice, following a battle with cancer. He fought a courageous fight with great determination and positive outlook. Born in Saint John on May 13, 1943, he was the son of Francis Edward and Gertrude Rita (Horgan) Gilbride. For the first three years of his life he lived with his mother at the Horgan farm, Churchland Road, awaiting the return of his father from WWII . It was here he developed a lifelong attachment to the land, forests, lakes and streams that provided him with many happy moments throughout his life. He became an ardent hunter and fisherman and upon his retirement an avid gardener. Frank grew up in East Saint John where he graduated from Simonds High School in 1961 and went onto receive a Diploma of Civil Engineering Technology from NB Community College in 1965. After graduation Frank started his working career with ADI Limited (Fredericton); involved in many projects ranging from the placement of the penstocks for the Mactaquac Dam to the development of numerous municipal and industrial facilities. Upon leaving ADI in 1973, Frank worked on major construction projects as a Site Superintendent. He liked to remind people that he was the first person on site for the construction of the new Regional Hospital. Frank worked for Gulf Operators on numerous Irving projects, retiring in 2005, after completion of the reconstruction of the Magaguadivic River Dam. Frank obtained his Gold Seal Certificate from the Canadian Construction Association in 1998. The Certificate is a declaration of skill and competence that is recognized by the construction industry across the country. Frank enjoyed the company of his family and friends. After the daily gardening work was completed, many lively discussions were held garden side regarding community and sporting events of the day, including his lifetime interest in harness racing. He loved reunions for the chance it gave him to renew old acquaintances. Last year he attended his 50th high school reunion and had the opportunity to reminisce with all his former classmates. He looked forward to the Horgan family reunions where he was a mainstay, softball pitching the descendants of the Horgan girls to numerous victories on the Horgan homestead’s hallowed ball field. For years he looked forward to the annual visit of his father’s sisters, Suzie & Cecelia from the west coast. Between reunions he kept numerous uncles, aunts and cousins up to date on family news with his Christmas card greetings. Frank is survived by soulmate June Ranson and brothers Paul (Anne) and Malcolm, nephews Patrick, Matthew, Owen, Eamon, Brian and niece Katie, good friend George Gallant, and many extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents Frank (1976) and Rita (1979). Frank deeply appreciated the care given by many during the time of his illness. The family on his behalf wish to give special thanks to the good people of Horizon Health and Bobby’s Hospice in Saint John. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424) with visitation on Monday, May 21st from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 4347 Loch Lomond Road, on Tuesday, May 22nd at 11:00 am, with a reception to follow at St. Joseph’s H.O.P.E. Centre. Interment will take place at a later date. For those who wish, remembrances to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences and remembrances may be placed at www.BrenansFH.com.