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BORN
1949
DIED
2017
FUNERAL HOME
Francis Doyle Obituary
May 27, 1949 - Sept 15, 2017
Francis Burton Doyle died peacefully at home in San Jose on September 15, 2017 of stomach cancer. Beloved husband of Nancy Fahrner Doyle. Loving father of Megan Eileen Doyle (Kevin Iadonato), John Francis Doyle (Laura), and Colleen Doyle Kendrick (Jeffry). Much loved "Papa Bear" of Eleanor Rose and Clare Elizabeth Doyle, Mario Francis Iadonato, and Cora Jane Kendrick. Admired oldest brother of Gerald James Doyle, Richard Doyle, and the late Joseph Charles Doyle. Wise and entertaining uncle to many nieces and nephews. Dear friend and respected colleague of many.Son of the late Dr. Francis and Eleanor Burton Doyle, Frank was born and raised in San Francisco. He attended St. Anne and St. Stephen schools and graduated from Archbishop Riordan High School in 1967. He received a BA in History from Santa Clara University in 1971, a JD from University of San Francisco School of Law, and a LLM in Taxation from Golden Gate University.
The founding partner of WealthPLAN, Frank was an estate and trust attorney whose practice touched the lives of many families and local charities. He was past president of Santa Clara County Estate Planning Council, served on numerous boards of nonprofits including Notre Dame High School. He helped found and grow the SCU Jerry A. Kasner Estate Planning Symposium. He taught Wills and Trusts at Lincoln Law School for almost 25 years and received its Lifetime Achievement Award last spring.
Frank worked hard, but he led a rich life outside of work, too. He loved to read and write and he honed his craft by taking writing courses at Stanford Continuing Studies. He was interested in history, politics, and social justice and always enjoyed lively conversation with friends and colleagues. He was an avid golfer who frequently woke early to drive up to play at the Olympic Club, where he had been a member for over 50 years. He was famous in his family for a hole-in-one on the 17th hole on the Ocean Course on Mothers' Day 1993.
Visitation Wednesday September 20 after 5 pm with Vigil service at 7 pm, Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary, 466 N. Winchester Blvd., Santa Clara. Funeral Mass Thursday September 21 at 10 am at St. Martin of Tours Church, 200 O'Connor Drive, San Jose.
Frank was a strong supporter of Catholic education, proud that all three of his children graduated from Catholic elementary and high schools and Jesuit universities, just as he had done. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to one of the schools his life touched: Archbishop Riordan High School, Santa Clara University, St. Martin of Tours elementary school, Notre Dame High School San Jose, Bellarmine College Preparatory, Presentation High School.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Francis Doyle
Sponsored by Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary.
Richard D Barker
April 16, 2023
Frank was my lawyer and friend for 40 years. I will miss him.
Cindi Goguen
August 25, 2018
Frank was my wonderful probate attorney...also a good friend. I am so saddened by his passing He was one of a kind!
Colleen Lukoff
May 7, 2018
I just learned of Frank's passing. So sorry to hear this. He was such a wonderful person, and committed to making the world a better place. We worked together to help local non-profits build their endowments.
Sandy McManus
September 27, 2017
Frank was a great professor at Lincoln Law School. I took the very 1st Wills & Trust class he taught back in 1990-1991! I learned so much from him! I respected his abilities as an attorney so much that I also referred my parents to him in order to have their Trusts drawn up! He will be missed by a great number of people - including myself!
Pamela Simmons
September 26, 2017
Professor Doyle was one of my instructors in law school. He taught Wills and Trust. I am so sorry to hear that he has left us. I greatly enjoyed his class and I enjoyed him personally. He has a great sense of humor and was very down to earth. Arline Crawford was another student. Arline spoke fluent french. I will never forget how much Frank loved to have Arline speak french in class. Thinking about his reaction to it always brings a smile to my face. I will miss him.
Nick Forooghi
September 22, 2017
Frank was first my professor and later I was proud to be able to call him also my colleague for the last 11 years. He was simply a good man--always kind, considerate and a calming presence. He was one of my favorite teachers and truly cared about his students learning and take away from every class. My office is a stone's throw from his. I finally made an appointment to go visit him, but his staff called and postponed the meeting to October 16, and so I was looking forward to seeing him when I heard the awful news of his passing. I had no idea he was so unwell--did know he was taking some time off for heath reasons. It is a tremendous loss to whoever knew Frank and whose life was touched by this gentle, wise, and kind man. My sincere sympathies to his dear family and all those he has left behind in this life. I regret I was outside of U.S. for a few weeks and could not attend his memorial in person. But, he is remembered by many and I am certainly one of them.
Shahin Shabahang
September 21, 2017
Frank was a wonderful professor at Lincoln Law School and a very capable lawyer. I regret that I did not go catch up with him in the past year as my to do list had gotten too long. Frank was a great man and will be missed dearly. My prayers are with his family.
Monica Grande
September 21, 2017
To the Doyle clan,
Our hearts are heavy for you as you go through this time. You are surrounded by so much love from so many, your sorrow is a shared sorrow. He will be missed for sure.
Paul Nesse
September 20, 2017
Frank was a great lawyer and friend who my wife and I knew for more than 25 years. He will be greatly missed not only as a lawyer, but also as a friend and golfer. Our condolences to his family in this very sad time. Paul and Eden Nesse
Todd Prindle
September 20, 2017
Frank was incredibly moral, smart and sincere. Which isn't easy for most attorneys. I was lucky enough to enjoy his wit, humor and great laugh. You can tell a lot about someone, by the way they laugh and play golf. He was terrific to play golf with and engage in our common business pursuits. While I was just a client, he treated me like a friend.
My condolences to his family, he will truly be missed. Todd Prindle(Santa Cruz, CA)
September 20, 2017
Frank and I became friends only ten years ago through my wealth management practice and his work helping clients plan effectively. We shared a great deal, including baseball, and took in a weekday Giants game the last few summers, which is how I first learned he was seriously ill. So sorry to lose him, as he was a wonderful family man, a great counselor, and a community figure. He'll be missed by many.
Bob von Esmarch
September 20, 2017
Frank and I were teammates at Riordan. I am so sorry for his passing, he was a fine person who will be missed. My sincere condolences to the family.
Michael Elisabeth Taylor
September 20, 2017
I remember from the early days of freshman year at SCU that Frank was always searching for the "morally right" answer during our conversations. As I reflect now decades following graduation, Frank epitomized the student becoming educated in the Jesuit tradition; he completed the process through his devotion to family, Church and community. God bless you Frank!
jack oberti
September 19, 2017
Although I haven't seen Frank since we graduated Santa Clara in the summer of '71, I'll always remember him as one intense, funny dude! Memories of 3rd Floor Walsh in Freshman year will never be forgotten. How Frank could get us to wake him up at 2am (when we were going to bed) so that he could start studying was beyond me (I don't know anyone else who would do that), yet it worked for him. I'm sorry we didn't stay in touch . Prayers to the Doyle family!
Brian L
September 19, 2017
So sorry to hear of your loss, I had the pleasure to have been one of his many students, he will be greatly missed.
Jaylene Rentie
September 19, 2017
My condolences to the Doyle family. I had the privilege of working with Frank at Wealthplan for 14 years. It was a journey I will never forget. He will be greatly missed.
Diane Sandhu
September 19, 2017
Please accept my sincere condolences. Professor Doyle was a very kind and brillant man who cared deeply about his students. He will be greatly missed.
Sincerely, Diane Sandhu, JD 2017
Steve & Beverly Faro
September 19, 2017
Dear Doyle Family:
We are grief stricken with the news of Frank's passing. He was one of my favorite persons whom helped my family and I for many years. I loved Frank he was full of knowledge and when it came to taxes, trusts and many other things he could answer any question with certainty. My wife Beverly and I are having a difficult time comprehending this loss. To say the least he will be missed for the fine man that he was. Steve and Beverly Faro
Carrie Guerra
September 19, 2017
My deepest sympathies go to the Doyle Family. I had the pleasure of meeting Frank back in 1987-88. He shared an office with a few other attorneys in downtown SJ and I was an assistant to one of them. I remember Frank as being a family man and he will truly be missed by many. God Bless.
Sarah Hoppe
September 19, 2017
My prayers and heart go out to the Doyle family. Frank touched the lives of so many, including mine. I've had the great privilege of being apart of his work family for the past 4 years, and even in that small period of time, I have learned and gained so much from him. He was a light and mentor to us all. I could go on and on about him but anyone that was apart of his journey knew how special he was. Truly one of a kind and he will be insanely missed.
Joe Miller
September 19, 2017
Frank was one of a kind and I will always have fond memories of our college days. My most sincere sympathies to Nancy and family
Frank Petroni
September 19, 2017
I had the pleasure of being a client for several years. He provided me with advice and reassurance.
Kathleen Dong
September 19, 2017
Professor Doyle was such a devoted teacher for all Lincoln students. He was patient and understanding for these evening class students and was passionate about teaching us all his knowledge. He will be greatly missed and we will always remember him.
Derryl Molina
September 19, 2017
Please know that a bright light has gone out of the world, the legal community, and especially his beloved family. Frank was my professor, my mentor, and my friend. I will truly miss him.
Walt Froloff
September 19, 2017
Professor Doyle taught me Wills and Trusts. He taught with sympathy, patience and kindness. I will always remember him.
Lisa Chan
September 19, 2017
My deepest condolences go to the Doyle family. Frank has been a great mentor to me. I can not express in words how grateful I am. Wishing he rests in peace.
Lisa Chan, Esq.
Linda Carter
September 19, 2017
My deepest sympathy to the Doyle family. I had the privilege to work for Frank, and learned a lot from him. Linda Carter
Philip Stromer
September 19, 2017
My deepest condolences to the Doyle family. I had Professor Doyle in 1997, my graduating year at Lincoln. He was an excellent teacher and had an engaging personality. May he rest in peace.
Laurel Loomer
September 19, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of Professor Doyle's passing. He was a wonderful teacher and he personally helped me after graduating with a legal issue (at no charge). I will forever be grateful for the wisdom and help he gave me. He was truly a leader in his field and a very kind man.
Payal Singh
September 19, 2017
My condolences to the family of Professor Frank Doyle, who taught Wills and Trusts to our class. He was a dignified person and I remember him as a fair and just man.
Dan Minutillo
September 19, 2017
I am so, so sorry to hear about Frank's passing. We shared office space for years so I had the honor of getting to know Frank well. Frank was always upbeat, professional and just an all-around wonderful person. My sincere sympathy.
Sue Saign
September 19, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of Professor Doyle's passing. He was a sweet person an so accomplished. He cared about the students and gave so much in way of time and knowledge. My thoughts are with his family at this time.
Mary Doyen
September 19, 2017
My deepest sympathy and love during this time to the Doyle family. I cannot even put into words how sad I am or how wonderful he was as the leader of our firm and the support he always gave. He will be truly missed today and always.
Julie SanGiorgio
September 18, 2017
What words can I find for Frank Doyle whose time and work assisted so many at a moment such as this, for someone who found the time to share in our grieving, too. My thoughts and prayers to all of you, family and friends, in hopes that you will find comfort and peace in knowing that his life was well lived and the final journey accomplished.
With Deepest Sympathy, Julie Pavlina-SanGiorgio
Fred Ali
September 18, 2017
Dear Nancy - Sorry to learn of Frank's passing. He was a great friend and mentor for me during my days at Santa Clara. My sympathies to you and your family.
Fred Ali, Los Angeles
Michelle Ogburn
September 18, 2017
So sorry to hear about the loss of your father, Megan. Grace to you and your family during this time.
Heather Ledgerwood
September 18, 2017
Frank was a mentor to me. I am grateful for the 4 years I have known him and the trust he put in me to take over his Lincoln Law School Wills and Trust class. I will miss our discussions and sometimes heated debates.
There are no words for this tremendous loss the world has now suffered. My heart goes out to all of Frank's family. I can only say thanks for everything Frank.
September 18, 2017
Please accept my sincere sympathy, love and prayers on Francis' passing. He was in my St. Anne's class! 0x, Kaaren Langbehn Alvarado
Liz Rains
September 18, 2017
My heart is so heavy at such a loss for your family. I lift you up to our heavenly father and pray for that peace that surpasses all understanding to fill your hearts. May all the beautiful memories you made and the love you shared always be enough.
Love you,
christine backhouse
September 18, 2017
My prayers and thoughts are with you Nancy and all the family. I will cherish all of the great memories I've shared with Frank for over 40 years. Frank was a wonderful friend he touched many lives I will miss him dearly. He will always be with us in our hearts. Christine Backhouse
Claude Anyos
September 18, 2017
I was Frank's first paralegal in 1980. He was my teacher, mentor, and dear friend, whose sense of humor surpassed none. Judges looked forward to his lively, entertaining appearances in court. RIP my friend.
Dianne Bogart
September 18, 2017
Frank was special. I had the good fortune to work with and learn from Frank. My prayers are with Frank's family and friends at this difficult time. Dianne Bogart
September 18, 2017
Frank was a good high school friend (Riordan Class of '67) and I cherish memories of those days, 50+ years ago. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife (Nancy), children, brothers, and very special grandkids. May you all find consolation in great memories and his lasting accomplishments.
Peace, Bob Ritchie
Fairbanks, Alaska
Donna Finegan
September 18, 2017
Nancy, Megan, John, Colleen and family members,
My heartfelt sympathies go out to all of you. Frank was a bright and fun loving person and will be missed by many. I have many fond memories of late night debates on a myriad of topics that interested him including marsupials! He always had a warm, engaging smile and cared deeply about his family and friends. My prayers are with you all and I hope the many memories you share will help you through the grieving process. Peace be with all of you.
Peter Miron-Conk
September 18, 2017
My prayers and thoughts are with you Nancy and the rest of the family. Frank and I shared 3rd floor Walsh freshman year and many spirited discussions on the issues of the day. Rest in Peace Frank.
Susan Doyle
September 17, 2017
My deepest sympathy to the entire Doyle family and the extended family and all the friends Frank touched. Frank was a kind and good person. He was a shoulder to cry on for me when Joe Died. Always good to me and he will be sincerely and deeply missed.
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Sep
20
Visitation
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary466 North Winchester Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050
Sep
20
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Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary466 North Winchester Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050
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