Passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Health Centre, Guelph on February 28th, 2023 at the age of 97.
Frank was predeceased by his wife Lorraine, and son Patrick (Susanne), and leaves his children Frank (Katherine) of Cambridge, Debi (Bruce Shultis) of Guelph, and Sheilagh (Scott Grills) of Manitoba. Grandfather to Catherine Dobbin and great-grandfather to Liam, great-grandpa to Jessica Anderson, and granddad to Matthew (Sylvia), Samantha and Nathan Grills. Frank was born in Fairvale Station, New Brunswick and was predeceased by siblings Dot, Mildred, Marge, Harry, Tom, Ruth and Jean, leaving many nieces and nephews.
Frank was a proud veteran, serving as a depth charge operator during WWII, staying in the Canadian Navy as a cook for 27 years and retiring as Master Warrant Officer. While reluctant to share much of the horrors of war, he loved to tell stories of dinners on the HMCS Bonaventure and cooking for the 881 Naval Air Squadron, among many others. He once had the distinction of being washed overboard on a drill, only to be swept back on board and disciplined for being away from his post. Frank worked magic in the large garden in Guelph, had a gift for woodworking and in his later years spent many hours colouring.
Many thanks to the staff at St. Joe’s for making space for his pictures and stories.
Cremation has taken place. Interment will take place at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL (519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com).
Memorial donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Health Centre Foundation, 100 Westmount Road, Guelph.
A tree will be planted in memory of Frank L. Dobbin in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.