Franklin Maurice Hargrave died in his sleep early morning August 7, 2023. Franklin was 63. He was born May 24, 1960. Son of Helen Blackburn and the late Glenn Hargrave, step son of the late Gordon Blackburn. Brother of Alex Hargrave and his wife Peggy. Special cousin of Karen Mackie (Eric) and Peggy Hughes Sturgess (Bob) and their families. Step brother of Greg Blackburn (late Valerie), Kevin Blackburn (Heather), Gail Blackstock, Randy Blackburn (Sylvia), late Brent Blackburn (Peggy). Kari Blackburn (Tom). Missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Franklin, always known as Frank, grew up on the property west of Creemore along the river, spending the rest of his life there. His childhood was full of the activities young boys love, playing in and beside the river, running through fields and trees with the neighbourhood boys, and undertaking many building projects.
He attended elementary school in Creemore, first at the school on Caroline Street and then at the senior school on Collingwood Street. Frank attended Stayner Collegiate Institute where he was a champion cross country runner going to the provincial finals twice. In track, he held the school record for 3000m for a number of years. He competed at OFSSA. As an adult, he became a keen soccer player, playing in two Collingwood leagues and winning many trophies.
After high school graduation, he worked for a year in Alberta, afterwards attending the University of Guelph earning a college diploma in agriculture. He competed in cross country running on the varsity team.
He worked for many years in the apple orchards here and around Thornbury and Clarksburg. He had expertise in apple tree care and managed large crews. He was sought out for his knowledge in the apple industry.
His life changed when he was seriously injured in a head-on collision in a snowstorm whiteout. He came through with a positive attitude and fighting spirit, which characterized him. Frank spent happy times wandering along the river and observing nature. Most of all he spent his days landscaping around the house. He moved soil, designed and built gardens, cared for the fruit trees and bushes. He was skilled at building stone paths and walls.
Each morning began with a trip to Creemore to have coffee with friends and have good conversations. Frank was quiet but observant, understanding people's feelings.
He cared for his mother with devotion. Frank was always ready to help others.
The sun will shine less brilliantly without Frank; but Frank is in the trees, he's in the river, the fields, and all around us.
Visitation will be held at Fawcett Funeral Home – Creemore Chapel from 12-2 p.m. on Friday August 11, 2023, with funeral service at 2 p.m. A reception will follow at the Station on the Green. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Frank’s memory to the Creemore Food Bank, Creemore Union Cemetery or the Tree Society of Creemore. Friends may visit Frank’s online Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com