Francis M. Canning

Francis M. Canning, 95 of Springfield died June 2, 2021 at home surrounded by his family. He was born January 29, 1926 to Michael and Mary (Hurley) Canning. A life-long resident of Springfield, Frank, or Fran growing up, attended local schools, graduating from Springfield Technical High School in 1943. He enlisted in the Navy and was selected for the V12 program, studying at Harvard and Tufts, and served out his tour in the Philippines. Upon return from military service, Frank was a firefighter for the Springfield Fire Department before accessing his GI benefits to attend Boston College. Frank graduated with a degree in business in 1952 and joined the Springfield Fire and Marine Insurance Company as a field agent. He continued to work in insurance throughout his career, earning his CPCU and eventually retiring in 1991 from the Royal Insurance, where he was a special agent for commercial lines. Frank married Margaret Fenton, literally the girl across the street, on April 16,1955. They settled in Springfield, in their cherished home where they’ve lived for 65 years and raised their six children: Mary (Sri Balasuriyar), Margo Vitello (Mark), Frank Jr. (Brenda), Ann (Ben Granskog), Ellen Ryan (John), and Julie Repass (Dave). Frank loved his faith, his country, and his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and made many sacrifices for his family. “Poppy”, as he eventually became known, was happiest sharing in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He was always there to advise, support, to cheer them on in their activities, and to celebrate their life milestones. He loved the numerous family gatherings at his home and was proud of his seat at the head of the ever-extending Thanksgiving table. Summer afternoons in the pool were always special. Frank was a founding and faithful member of St. Paul’s parish where he served on the Athletic Association and Parish Council. He was also a Life member of the Springfield Lodge of Elks #61. He was a dedicated Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots and Bruins fan, enjoyed golf and travel. In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by his grandchildren, Mark Vitello (Lindsay), Marie Darr (Josh), Nora and John Vitello, Michael and Mary Balasuriyar, Erin Canning, Martin and Margaret Ryan; his great granddaughters Anne and Julia Darr; his sister Eleanor McNerney and many cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Bill and Jack Canning, and grandson Michael Canning. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 235 Dwight Road at 10:00 am on Friday June 11. Burial will be in St. Michael’s Cemetery. The family wishes to thank all those who helped make it possible to keep Frank in his beloved home: the Department of Veterans Affairs, and especially Frank’s dedicated nighttime caregiver, Polly. Memorial donations may be made to City of Springfield Forest Park, 200 Trafton Rd., Springfield, MA 01108, or Saint Paul the Apostle Church, 235 Dwight Rd. Springfield MA 01108