Fran Callanan Jr., 58, of Peabody, MA, died peacefully in his home surrounded by family and friends after a courageous battle with Glioblastoma Multiforme. Fran leaves behind his cherished wife, Heather (McFarlane) Callanan, with whom he shares 17 of marriage. Fran is highly devoted to his children, Logan (17) and Rylee (15). He is the proud step father to Bobby Mason of Beverly, MA and Cody Mason of Manchester, NH. He is a loving Papa to Cambree (10), Ryan (9), Lily (3) and Elliott (1). Fran joins his late father, Francis Callanan, and mother, Lauretta (Conley) Callanan.

Fran’s love for his family is palpable and he beams this love of family for all to see. Fran and Heather are a dynamic duo who have created a life based on the principles of love, honor, integrity, hard work and devotion to one another and their family. Fran is the most supportive, hands on and engaging role model for his children and their love and respect for him will never falter. Fran’s love for them will never die.

Behind Fran’s bright blue eyes, is a sparkle and a smile. There is a sense of genuineness that puts you at ease and makes you feel appreciated, valued and seen when you are in his presence. Fran has the innate ability to make everyone around him, young or old, feel like a friend. What an honor it is to be this man’s friend. Fran has had many devoted friends since his days at the West Memorial Elementary School, Kennedy Junior High and Peabody Vetertan’s Memorial High School (Class of 1983). His friendship to so many encompasses loyalty, devotion and reliability. It also entails endless wit, sarcasm, dry humor and lots of laughs. Thank you, Fran, for being such a wonderful friend.

In addition to being a wonderful friend, Fran was also an admirable coach to hundreds of children in Peabody. Fran was both a coach and board member for Peabody Babe Ruth, Peabody Tanners Little League Softball and Peabody Western Little League. He has coached North Shore Flag Football, Peabody Basketball Association and Middle School basketball teams. Coach Fran encourages with positivity and passion for the game. Fran instilled his own values of being a team player and playing with integrity, while respecting teammates, the opposing team, coaches and yourself. Fran’s kindness, respect and enthusiasm towards each player has captivated Peabody’s young athletes. In 2023, Peabody Babe Ruth presented Fran with the “Fran Callanan Community Service Award” in appreciation for his outstanding work, leadership and volunteerism to the youth of Peabody. Fran’s legacy will continue each year with this award.

The world is a brighter, happier, funnier and better place because of Fran. Fran led a life of honor, love and integrity - he is one of the good ones and he will shine down on us as he cruises in his black Trans Am with Bismark riding shotgun, Journey booming through the speakers.

His funeral will be held on Wednesday at 9:30 AM at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St, Peabody, followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM at St. Adelaide’s Church, Lowell St, Peabody to which relative and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday from 4:00 until 7:00 PM. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Peabody.