Whitney Pier
It is with heavy hearts that we, the family announce the passing of Francis ‘Franny’ O’Rourke of Whitney Pier, beloved son of the late John William “Jack Rabbit” and Kathleen (Reynolds) O’Rourke. Francis was a devoted son, brother, uncle, and friend, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Born and raised in Whitney Pier, Francis was part of a large and loving family. He is survived by his siblings, Kevin (Julia), John (Gracie), Michael (Anita), and his only sister, Betty (Blair) Melanson, all of Sydney. He was a proud and much-loved uncle to his nieces and nephews, Stacey, Natasha, Kevin, John, Jason, Janine (deceased), Reilly, Corson, Michelle, and Jonathan Melanson.
Franny worked for many years as a project manager at Litton Systems Limited, holding positions in both Toronto and Halifax. His dedication, attention to detail, and leadership were highly valued by his colleagues and respected throughout his career.
Francis was known for his kind heart, quiet demeanor, and strong sense of family. Like his father, Jack, he had a deep love for the outdoors. He especially enjoyed fishing and hunting, pastimes that brought him peace, joy, and countless cherished memories throughout his life. Whether it was an early morning by the water or a quiet day in the woods, Francis found comfort and meaning in nature.
Francis was a steady, dependable presence to those around him, always willing to lend a hand, share a laugh, or offer thoughtful advice. His gentle spirit and warm smile left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Visitation for the late Francis O’Rourke will be held at the Pier Community Funeral Home, Whitney Pier, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church Street) from 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025. Memorial Mass will be held in Holy Redeemer Church on Friday, July 4, 2025, at 11 a.m. with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating. Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Francis’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice or to a local wildlife or conservation organization.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
Our sincere condolences to you and your family.
From: Tony and Georgina Ben
So sorry for your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.May he rest in peace…
From: Richard & Debbie Delaney
John and Mike. Sorry for your loss
From: Graham Thompson
We will miss our long time neighbour Francis who lived directly across the street from us for 40 some years. We will miss seeing him each day in the summer on his front step. Always a hello and a chat. The neighbourhood won’t be the same without you. RIP Francis. Our hearts are broken. 💔
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time
Hugs
Joan and Robert
Condolences to my friend Kevin and the O’Yorke family and friends!!!!
One of my boys from the Police Athletic Club Dodgers of Sydney Little League. My deepest sympathy to the family whom are friends. Frannie will be missed for sure. Rest in peace Frannie.
My heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to the O’Rourke family during this incredibly difficult time. I cannot imagine the pain that you are all experiencing with the loss of Francis. Please know that you are not alone in your grief. Even in moments of deep sorrow, there is hope to hold onto. Francis’s legacy will forever remain in your hearts. I pray that God grants you the strength, peace, and comfort you need as you navigate through this challenging time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. 🙏💔
Deepest sympathy 💐 to all family & friends on the passing of a Pier school friend. I have not seen Franny for a very long time
I do remember his very pleasant personality.
Sincere condolences to all the 0’Rourke family from a former childhood neighbour from Kitchener st.
Condolences to the O’Rourke family on Franny’s passing. Rest in peace Franny.
Worked with Franny for years at LSL, we may have shared a drink or two as well. He was very long and gentle. I love this about him. Most sincere condolences 💐 Sue Creese
My husband and I both worked with Franny at Litton. We had lots of great times at parties and playing baseball. He was a gem. 💔❤️
My condolences to the O’Rourke family on the passing of Francis aka Franny. Franny was a wonderful young man kind and friendly person. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. He will be missed. R.I.P. Franny
To the O’Rourke family my deepest condolences so sorry for your loss
Betty and family, Our sincere condolences on the loss of your brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless
Lonnie & Connie Howe
Sincere condolences to the O’Rourke family and friends at the passing of Francis.
Condolence to the family . May you RIP my friend.
Franny was a very gentle soul. RIP Franny. RIP
Deepest sympathy to the O’Rourke family on the passing of Franny.
Dave French and family
Our sincere condolences to all of The O’Rourke family. We were saddened to read of Franny’s passing. We both had the pleasure of working and socializing with him at Litton. We had some great times and a lot of laughs with him. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time. Rest In Peace Franny.
Catherine and Bruce Rowlands
Sincere condolences to Kevin, John, Michael and Betty and all of the O’Rourke family on the passing of Francis. Our thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.
So many great memories with Franny
Fun times at work (Litton), Baseball, Fishing in Cape Breton and just a general great Friendship
Franny would give you the shirt of his back if you needed it
Fun times always
RIP buddy
Tom
We are very sorry for your loss.
Bert and Maurina Lewis
Condolences to all his family and friends,May He Rest In Peace.
I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to Kevin, Julia, and the O’Rourke family. Rest in peace, Francis.
Ron & Lexi
Grew up with Franny. Played road hockey. Later in life, worked with Franny at coke ovens. Had the occasion to also have a beer or two. He was a good man. Condolences to all his family. RIP Francis.
Our condolences go out to the O’Rourke family.
Brian&Cathy Targett