Obituary of Francis James Holahan, III

Francis James Holahan III, a Navy Veteran and owner of Shawsheen Construction, formally known as Holahan Landscaping, passed away on July 2, 2023, at the age of 58. Fran was born to his parents Mary and Francis Holahan, Jr. in Lexington. Fran grew up in Lexington, graduated from Lexington High School and went on to Boston College. While enrolled at BC, Fran played on the football team. Before graduation though, Fran enrolled to serve his country in the Navy.

Fran proudly served in the Navy as a member of the Construction Battalion, or Seabees, as they were informally known. The SeaBees taught Fran all he needed to know about landscaping and construction. After serving through Operation Desert Storm, Fran completed his time with the service and returned home. Once back, Fran started his landscaping construction company, Shawsheen Construction. He and his team built all things outdoors; walkways, patios, retaining walls, and much more. After years of working in the field, Fran started working part time as a Temp Instructor at the New England Tractor Trailer School as an instructor. He enjoyed his time training and working with students on the equipment he knew and loved.

In 1997, KLB radio had a dateline. Fran decided to give it a try and entered an online questionnaire. He gave them his information and low and behold went on and an played matchmaker… and they nailed it. Fran got set up with Dawn Gladue, and they immediately hit it off. The two were inseparable and were married within the following year. They settled in Woburn and built a wonderful life together, welcoming their daughter, Megan Elizabeth to the family as well.

Fran was a simple man, who prided himself on hard work, but knew how to relax when he was off. He, Dawn, and Megan cherished their summer retreat to Vermont, where they relaxed and rejuvenate. They would spend the week driving around the mountains, going on hikes, spending time at the beer hall, getting massages and just bonding as a family. Locally, Fran loved to kill time playing golf and listen to music. He listened to all genres, from Country to Rock to Jazz. Fran and Dawn were regulars at Scullers Jazz Club in Cambridge. Fran enjoyed bonding with Megan, teaching her how to drive, and caring for their dog Buddy. They also were in a bowling league together and loved to go out for ice cream. Fran will be remembered for his big heart, and always being ready and able to help. He always had a joke, and whether or not it made others laugh, he always made himself laugh.

Francis is survived by his wife, Dawn, and their daughter Megan. His two sisters, Kathleen Skinner and her husband Steve Skinner and their two sons Hayden and Harmon and Joanne Callahan, and her husband Wayne Callahan and more nieces and nephews along with many beloved cousins.

Visiting hours for Fran will be on Friday, July 7, from 4 to 7 PM at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, MA 01803. A funeral service will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home on Saturday July 8, at 10 AM. Burial will be private.

For online guestbook, service information and tribute video, please visit www.sullivanfuneralhome.net