Published in the November 12, 2018 edition.
WAKEFIELD — Francis J. “Franny” Maher, 64, of Wakefield, died peacefully, early Thursday morning, November 8, 2018, at his home, after a brief battle with cancer. Beloved husband of Cynthia E. “Cindy” (Cronin) Maher.
Born and raised in Woburn, Fran was a son of the late Francis and Elizabeth “Betty” (Cantillon) Maher. He attended St. Charles School and was a graduate of Woburn High School, Class of 1972.
In 1982, Franny married the love of his life Cindy Cronin. Cindy was not only his wife, but his best friend and confidant throughout 36 years of marriage. They made their home in Wakefield where they raised their two children, but never forgot his roots in Woburn.
Upon graduation from high school, Franny began working for New England Telephone Co., which later became a part of AT&T where he remained for close to 33 years, retiring at the age of 50. After retiring, Franny took up painting for friends and family which he really enjoyed. When he was not busy painting, Franny drove a shuttle bus for Woburn Toyota for a good number of years, meeting, greeting and bringing people to their destinations, several days a week.
When Franny wasn’t working he would be found at home with his family. Together they truly enjoyed each other’s company. Family trips over the years were always an adventure. Whether it was ski trips to Loon, which they frequented during the winter months, summering at Hampton Beach or nestled in at the White Mountains, to fish and camp. Hampton Beach was their family vacation destination. And every year since he was a child, aunts, uncles, cousins and family members would arrive for the summer and the different families as they grew older with their own families, would return for two weeks… so enjoyed by all. Fran could also be found out and about on a golf course, enjoying the company of friends. An avid sports fan throughout the years, Franny enjoyed all seasons. When baseball or football games were on TV, he could be found in his man cave with family and friends.
Over the last decade, Cindy and Franny would take their “mini get-aways” for a couple of days, always remaining not too far from home. Franny’s family was his world. All throughout his life, family was first, unquestionably. Franny was a very honest and fiercely loyal person, who said what he thought and yes, meant what he said. His exterior at times could be a little gruff but beneath that surface there was a most kind, gentle, selfless and thoughtful person. Franny will be deeply missed by all those who had that wonderful pleasure of knowing him and without a doubt, his spirit will live on.
Sadly, Franny was predeceased by his parents, Fran, Betty and sister Maureen Maher. Along with his wife Cindy, Fran is survived and will be deeply missed by his children, Francis J.” Frankie” Maher, Jr. and Shannon E. Maher, both of Wakefield; his sister, “Beth” McCusker, her late husband David and their son Brian McCusker of Melrose and the late Maureen Maher. He was the cherished “Grampy” of Ryder and dear son-in-law of Mrs. Bernice “Bernie” Cronin-McDonald of Wakefield. Frannie is also survived by many loving cousins and dear friends.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 13 in St. Joseph’s Church, 173 Albion Street, Wakefield, at 10 a.m. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to call at the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, Monday, November 12 from 4-8 p.m.
