Motard, Francis T's Obituary
Francis “Frank” Thomas Motard Sr. lived a life rooted in faith, family, strength, and service. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Suzanne, of 46 years; a proud father of six children; and the beloved “Pepe’” to his grandchildren.
Frank was the kind of man people knew they could call when they needed help. Whether it was family, friends, or someone simply in need of a steady hand, he showed up. To his grandchildren, he was “Pepe’ Fix-It,” the one who could repair just about anything and somehow make them feel safe, loved, and included while doing it.
From a young age, Frank showed discipline and determination. He earned a black belt in karate, excelled in gymnastics and wrestling, and became a Massachusetts state champion in long-distance track. He later shared his love of sports by coaching baseball with his brothers.
Frank worked hard throughout his life and took pride in many roles. He worked in the Lowell Mills, including Hub Hosiery, Valley Design, and Mobile Chemicals. He also worked in housekeeping at Lowell General Hospital, drove a special needs bus, and spent meaningful years in the school system as a parent liaison and disciplinary officer. He was especially proud of that time because he knew he had helped children who needed patience, structure, and someone willing to believe in them.
For 35 years, Frank was involved in search and rescue and police dog training. He also bred German Shepherds for many years, combining his love of animals with his desire to serve and protect others.
Music was another of Frank’s passions; he performed in a longstanding family band alongside his brothers, Bill and Leo, his best friend, and his father-in-law. He also loved John Wayne, The Beatles, the Boston Red Sox, the New England Patriots, cribbage, card games with family, fishing, the outdoors, and most of all, the ocean.
Though much of his early life and family story were rooted in Lowell and the mountains of New Hampshire, Frank spent the last 20 years living in Florida, where his love for the ocean became an almost daily part of his life. Camping, family trips, and time outdoors remained treasured parts of the memories he created with those he loved.
One of Frank’s greatest gifts was the way he made room for people. He opened his home and his heart to troubled teens, helping them find stability, guidance, and a path forward. Wherever he went, he made friends. In his family, he was often a peacemaker, and among his 13 brothers and sisters, he was part of a large and deeply connected family.
At the center of Frank’s life was his wife, Sue. Together, they shared a simple prayer that shaped the way they lived: “Lord, help us to be kind and compassionate with whomever You put before us today.”
He is survived by his wife, Sue; his children, Frank Motard Jr. (Victoria), Suzanne Motard-Davis, Nicholas Motard (Aubrey), Joseph Bright (Christi), Claire Blake, and Joseph Motard; his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many family members and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Leo and Patricia Motard Sr., as well as several beloved siblings, sisters-and-brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Frank’s legacy lives on in the family he built, the children he guided, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely. His faith, his laughter, and his steady presence will remain with all who loved him, especially his grandchildren, who will always know him as their Pepe’.
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