OBITUARY: Francis R. Dodge, 84

Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:

WILMINGTON, MA — Francis Robert Dodge, affectionately known as “Fran” age 84, of Wilmington, MA passed away peacefully at home on August 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Fran was born on June 22, 1941, the son of the late Pauline (Harrington) Gerbick and the late William Dodge. He was raised in Winchester, MA and graduated in 1959 from Winchester High School. Upon graduation, Fran enlisted in the United States Navy. Fran served proudly on active duty until June of 1962, when he was honorably discharged.

During his time in the service he married his high school sweetheart, Sandra M. Eshbach in December, 1961. A few years later, the couple settled in Wilmington, MA where they raised a beautiful family of five children. They shared a lasting marriage of 63 years together built on love, respect, and strong family values. They were true partners, celebrating life’s joys and facing its trials together. Fran was a committed husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He made it a priority to be present for every event whether it was hockey, football, soccer, basketball, track meet, cheering competition, school event, or award ceremony. Fran was immensely proud of his family.

For many years he worked as a postal clerk at the U.S. Post Office before retiring in 2001. Known for his friendly personality and commitment to service, Fran went above and beyond for both customers and coworkers. He also served as Union Representative for the Wilmington and Tewksbury branches, always advocating for fairness and standing up for his fellow employees.

In his free time, he enjoyed listening to music, reading, playing tennis, fishing, taking road trips; especially to Myrtle Beach to visit family, attending concerts, and cheering on all of his favorite New England sports teams.

Fran will be fondly remembered as a kind, gentle man with a witty sense of humor and heart of gold. He was always ready to lend a hand, offer support, or share a moment of wisdom. His unconditional love for his family and friends left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Fran is survived by his devoted wife Sandra M. (Eshbach) Dodge; beloved father of Bob Dodge and his wife Laurie of Wilmington, Susan Brady of Haverhill, Jenny Solimine of NH and son-in-law Michael Benson of SC. Loving “Papa” of Kayla Nally and her husband Craig, Cora Rollins, Bobby Dodge. Cherished “Great-Papa” of Madeline and Juliette Nally, whom he adored. He was the dear brother of Steven Gerbick and his wife Ellen of Woburn, Mary Ellen Forney of PA and many nephews and nieces and friends.

Fran is predeceased by his daughter Linda Sullivan and son-in-law Robert Sullivan, his daughter Kerry Benson and granddaughter Riley Benson, son-in-law Scott Solimine, Brother John Gerbick, Brother Frank Gerbick, Sister Marlene Comita, and Sister Barbara Cotter.

Family and friends will gather for Visiting Hours at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Monday, September 8th from 5:30-8:00 p.m. A Service to Celebrate Fran’s life will take place at the Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 9th at 11:00 a.m. followed by his interment with Military Honors in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington, MA.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Fran’s memory to the MSPCA at Nevin’s Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844.

To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.