Obituary: Woburn Woman Remembered as Mother of Five, Giving Volunteer

Born on October 6, 1940, in Philadelphia, Penn., to the late Matthew and Helen Giel (Mathis), "Fran" was known as a smiling individual with a heart full of love. She served in the United States Navy (1962-1963), where she met and married her late husband of 49 years, William F. Donovan. Together they had five children: Maureen Raboin, William F. Donovan Jr., Kathleen, Brian and Margaret "Peg."

Along with being a loving, giving and always present mother, Fran spent many years working as a data transcriber for the IRS, where she met many friends. A woman with many talents, Fran will leave a legacy of volunteerism, having hand made hundreds of memory quilts and rosaries for many, including men and women who serve in our military.

Above all, Fran loved to spend quality time with family. She enjoyed crafts and baking with her children and grandchildren, especially for the holidays. A puzzle or reading a book with a grandchild was a day well spent. Fran also found peace at the beach and listening to sound of nature.

Fran will always be remembered for her contagious laugh, patience and ability to listen, wisdom, courage and gentle heart. She was everyone's best friend and will continue to be with us as our angel.

In addition to her children, Fran was a devoted mother in law to Joseph Raboin, a cherished grandmother of Christopher, Stephanie, Kimberly, Meghan, Nolen, John, Matthew, Sarah and Callie. She was also a loving great grandmother to Madison. She was the dear sister of Matthew Giel Jr. and Rae Ellen Hoffman and her late husband Harry. A beloved sister in law of Frances Edwards and loving aunt to several nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her beloved siblings; Margaret "Peg" Deegen her husband Neil, Charles F. Giel Sr., Helen Gerace and her husband William Gerace.

Funeral from the Barile Family Funeral Home, 482 Main St. (RT 28) STONEHAM Friday December 13, 2013 at 9amfollowed by a Funeral Mass Celebrating France's Eternal Life in St. Patrick Church, 71 Central St. Stoneham at 10am. Family and Friends are cordially invited to gather and share remembrances with the Family on Thursday December 12, 2013 from 4-7pm in the Funeral Home. Parking attendants and handicapped elevator are available. Interment with Military Honors, St. Patrick's Cemetery, Stoneham.

In Lieu of flowers, please honor Frances by making donations in her memory to the Merrimack Valley Hospice House, 360 Merrimack Street Lawrence, MA.