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FRANCIS SPEER Obituary
Born September 13, 1938, in Port Arthur, Ontario Passed away July 1, 2025, at St. Joseph's Care Group, Thunder Bay, Ontario
With heavy hearts, the family of Francis Joseph "Fran" Speer would like to announce his passing on July 1, 2025, in the arms of his loved ones, after a lengthy illness. He was 86 years old.
Fran was born to Thomas and Rita (O'Brien) Speer. He shared a deep and devoted love with his wife, Judy (Ollerhead) Speer, with whom he traveled the world and embarked on countless adventures side by side.
Fran was the best dad to his daughters Linda Speer (Gerry Fillion) and Theresa Speer (Todd Andrusyk); his unofficial son, Paul Gronski; and his stepdaughter, Michelle Ollerhead (Yanik Richards). He was the cherished grandfather of Adam Fillion, Lucas and Shelby Keighley, and Logan Richards.
Fran was a dear big brother to Gerald (Annette) Speer, Robert (Joanne) Speer, Rose Marie (Richard) Shandruk, Monica Speer (Roy Cava), Mary (Melvin) Gonyou, and Rita (Kenneth) Gaudette.
He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and dear friends, including longtime dedicated employees Lori and Fred Colvin.
Fran was a guiding light, a loyal friend, and a force of nature. Among his many professions, Fran took great pride in his work as an ironworker with Local 759. He lived and worked in Atikokan for nearly 30 years before returning to Thunder Bay in 2001. There, he embraced outdoor life to the fullest and was a prominent businessman.
He will be remembered as a mover and a shaker always on the go, always up to something, and always with a purpose.
Fran lived with integrity, never shied away from a challenge, and was a generous man who played an important role in many lives, always going above and beyond.
He will be forever missed but never forgotten. Rest easy, Fran. You did it your way and what a way it was.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses at 4 North for their compassionate care, with special thanks to Ryan, Holly, and Laurie. Thank you also to the aunties for keeping us fed.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 13, from 1-4 p.m. in the Scandia Room at the Valhalla Inn.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Fran's name may be made to Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Care or St. Joseph's Care Group Hospice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for FRANCIS SPEER
13 Entries
Nigel Barr
October 5, 2025
Very sorry to read this. I worked with Fran and his previous partner about 35 years ago, a very honest and straightforward man. Offering condolences and warmest wishes to all his family and friends.
Nigel Barr, Kamloops BC
Tom Woodbeck
July 16, 2025
I considered Fran a friend ...we spent many years together.... Just heard about him passing. My heart is broken. Rest in peace my friend......Woody..
David Beebe
July 15, 2025
Missed Fran´s Celebration of Life.
Total pleasure doing business with Fran at Atikokan Foods over many many years. Always easy, complete professional. Don´t make them like him anymore.
David Beebe
Beebe Mechanical Systems
Hans and Jacqueline Vergroesen - Holland
July 11, 2025
We are blessed to have known this great guy for a few years, mostly in Portugal.
I am sure that he wanted us to go on in his way, modest and always friendly, consistent and always inspiring to us, whether it was on the walks to Villamoura, or to all restaurants and places were we all have been. And it was not the food, but the company we all enjoyed so much. Our thoughts are of course with all of the family, especially for Judy, who we admire evenly for her kindness and inspiration.
We will remember Fran for a very long time. Rest in peace.
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Len Day
July 10, 2025
I knew Fran the snowmobiling community. Great guy. Always wanting to help others. Condolences to his surviving family members.
Paula sanders
July 8, 2025
Thinking of Fran´s entire family during this difficult time. I had the privilege of working with Fran on many projects... He was a man of few words, didn´t really like attending meetings... But when he committed to doing something, you knew it was going to happen. I can´t imagine what the community of Atikokan would be like without has countless contributions. He had a vision for the town... And just had a way of making things happen. However, he was never too busy to share a sincere smile. We were so grateful to Fran and Judy for showing us around Portugal while we were there. He will be remembered always; hugs to all of the family.
Barbara Mitchell
July 8, 2025
Condolences to Judy all friends and family at this time of loss
Barbara Mitchell
July 8, 2025
My condolences to Rita and all of his friends and family my heart goes to all of you
Karyn Mason
July 7, 2025
My sincere condolences to you Judy and the family.
May Fran rest in peace.
Brian Koski
July 6, 2025
I am thankful for our meeting this spring and our thoughts we had on life, and how we lived it, condolences to the family, and thanks for the memories I have for the yrs. we travelled and worked together.
Gail Syncox
July 5, 2025
With sincere sympathy .Rest in peace Fran.
Audra and Matt
July 5, 2025
To Judy and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss sending our deepest condolences to you all and hugs also
From Audra and Matt Oxford
Glen Morrison
July 5, 2025
Linda, I'm very sorry to hear about your Father. Take care
Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results