Francis D. "Frank" Gleason

Francis D. Gleason, of Shrewsbury, died Monday, June 28, 2010 unexpectedly in his home. He was 77.

‘Frank,’ as he was affectionately known, was born March 19, 1933 in Worcester, a son of the late Francis and Deborah (Moynihan) Gleason. He was a graduate of North High School, class of 1951. He came from a family with generational ties as alumni to The College of The Holy Cross. A proud alumni of ‘The Cross’, he was a graduate with the class of 1955. Two years after college he was drafted by the United States Military and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. After his service he was placed in the U.S. Army Detached Service for 2 years, then a division of the Central Intelligence Agency.

He was a self-employed manufacturer’s representative for over 40 years in which he sold handbags, luggage, leather goods and briefcases. His territory spanned the New England region. He loved his work and continued doing so on a part-time basis until his death.

Frank had simple pleasures in life. An avid golfer, he was most happy at his second home at Wachusett Country Club where he had been a member for many years. He formed many great friendships on the golf course. Frank treasured time with his family, his friends, alumni and business associates. He spoke affectionately about his Worcester and ‘Crusader’ roots, but considered himself a longtime Shrewsbury resident for having lived in town for over 43 years. Frank enjoyed a good laugh and a reminiscent story of times past. A proud American and veteran, he enjoyed time with other veterans at the American Legion Post #224 in Northborough. He was a man who was strong in his faith as he worshipped faithfully at his parish, Church of St. Mary.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his sisters, Ann Martin and Marie Conlan.

He leaves his children, Deborah L. Dabisch and her husband, James, of Park Ridge, Illinois and Christopher M. Gleason of Charlestown and Shrewsbury; his two grandsons, Matthew and Jack Dabisch; his former wife, Gloria G. ‘Gigi’ (Gentile) Gleason of Shrewsbury; his brother-in-law, George F. Martin, of West Boylston; 7 nephews and 1 niece; many great-nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will honor and remember Frank’s life by gathering for calling hours in The Callahan & Fay Brothers, 61 Myrtle Street, Worcester, Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Friday morning before leaving in procession to Saint Mary’s Church, 640 Main Street, Shrewsbury Center where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at the Mountain View Cemetery in Shrewsbury.

Memorials in Frank’s name may be made to Saint Mary’s Church, Capital Campaign, 18 Summer Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

To share a memory or offer on-line condolence, please visit www.tributes.com/frankgleason