FRANCIS (FRANK) JOSEPH GILRAINE

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FRANCIS (FRANK) JOSEPH GILRAINE August 20, 1922 - January 30, 2008 Peacefully on January 30, Frank, beloved and loving husband, father, brother and grand-father, was promoted to glory. Born in Winnipeg, Frank leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 56 years Jean; his sons, George (Judi) and granddaughter Sandra, of Toronto and Wayne (Merrill) of Calgary. Surviving Frank is his sister, Laverne of Winnipeg and sister-in-law Dora of Vancouver, as well as many nieces and nephews. Frank was predeceased by his two brothers, George of Vancouver and Charlie of Winnipeg. Frank served with the Canadian Navy overseas during the Second World War and in the Reserve Navy until age 50 as a Chief Petty Officer. He spent many happy hours at HMCS Chippewa. Frank worked for 32 years in Winnipeg, retiring from the Canadian Pacific Railway as a Train Yard Coordinator. Frank was an active member of the Anglican churches: St. Alban's in Fort Rouge, St. Paul's in Fort Garry, St. Paul of the Desert in Palm Springs and St. John's in Cobble Hill. Frank was Past Master of Meridian No. 140 Masonic Lodge, member of the Scottish Right, Khartum Shrine Temple, Drum and Bugle Corps and past president of the Gyro and Lions Clubs in Wpg. Frank and his family enjoyed cottage life at Falcon Lake and Lake of the Woods. After retirement, winter residence was taken close to their good friends the Bakers, in Palm Springs, CA. Frank and Jean moved to Vancouver Island in 1992. Frank's humour, good nature and fun stories will be remembered. Frank performed on stage as a comedian and emcee for many years including Las Vegas and Knotts' Berry Farm. One of his goals in life was to keep everybody smiling. He will be greatly missed. Our thanks and appreciation goes to the Cowichan Hospital staff. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, February 4, at St. John's Church, 3295 Cobble Hill Rd., Cobble Hill, BC. Officiating clergy is the Rev. Scott Pittendrigh. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of one's choice is appreciated.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 02, 2008