Obituary of Francis P. Brennan

Francis P. Brennan, of Hingham, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Jan. 13, surrounded by family and friends after a lengthy and courageous battle with several illnesses. His strength and resiliency was inspiring to his wide network of family, friends and caregivers. He was 57. Known as Fran by his family and friends, he was the loving husband of Maureen (McKenna) and loving father of Harrison, 12, and twins, Ethan and Gillian, 10. Fran and Maureen were married in a beautiful outdoor ceremony on Prince Edward Island in 1995. Fran was born in Dorchester, grew up in Cedarville and established his home in Hingham. He was known for his wit and warm personality. He often introduced himself as, Francis Peter Brennan Dontchaknow, a nod to his Irish heritage. He used that charm in his craft as a career sales representative, often becoming close friends with his business clients and co-workers. First diagnosed with cancer at 5 years old, he defied the odds with the help of the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute by surviving Ewings sarcoma. He would be diagnosed with and beat cancer three additional times as a adult. A 1975 graduate of Plymouth-Carver High School, Fran at one time owned his own cash register sales business, but really established his career as vice president for Boston ECR, a company that sold point of sales systems to restaurants. He was known for his zest for life, often leading the festivities with family and friends. He was a favorite uncle to his many nieces and nephews. Fran was an avid Red Sox fan and would often be seen donning his B cap, especially around Yankees fans. He loved fishing, particularly teaching his three children to cast a line. He enjoyed playing hockey and golf, but in his younger days was most at home on Great Herring Pond in his cherished Hobie Cat. Fran was one of eight children of the late Edward and Helen Brennan of Dorchester and Plymouth. Besides his wife and children, he is survived by his seven brothers and sisters and their spouses, Mary Ellen Caesar of Sandwich, Edward of Florida, Joseph of Tennessee, Dennis of Michigan, Terry McKenna of Cedarville, John of Bourne and George of Falmouth. He is also survived by his many in-laws who provided loving support to his family during his illness, as well as his dog and companion, Eddie. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral Mass in St. Pauls Church, 147 North St., Hingham on Saturday, Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Brennan Family Trust, c/o Citizens Bank, 11 Fearing Road, Hingham, MA 02043. See www.Keohane.com for on line condolences. Arrangements were completed by the McDonald Keohane Funeral Homes.