Francine Hepburn (nee Gareau) passed away peacefully at Gateway Haven – Wiarton on Friday October 24, 2025 at the age of 75 years. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Francine, a devoted wife of 52 years to Robert Hepburn. Francine was a loving mother to Brian and Michelle (William Hofman), and a cherished grandmother to Anthony (Rebecca), Tyler (Chelsea), Sonya (Josh), Jarrett (Brittney), and Mason. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Bishop, Asher, Brant, Harris, and Wade. Sister of Georgette (Roland Grenier). Predeceased by parents, Henry and Simone; and siblings, Jacques (Doris), Pierre (Michelline), and Huguette (Ed Cohen). Francine had a love of music, jamborees, darts, horseshoes, and to make people laugh while cooking and sharing food. She devoted her career to supporting others as a committed support worker for Gateway Haven, touching countless lives with kindness and empathy. Her gentle spirit and tireless efforts brought comfort and hope to those in need. We would like to thank Gateway Haven staff for the loving care Francine received as a resident during the last 2 years. Friends may call at the Thomas C. Whitcroft Peninsula Chapel, Wiarton (519) 534-5341 on Friday November 7, 2025 for a Memorial Gathering from 2-5 PM. Time of Sharing at 3PM. Donations to the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated. Condolences may be expressed online at www.whitcroftfuneralhome.com
Date of Funeral
November 7, 2025
Condolences(13)-
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Scott and Penny says
October 28, 2025 at 6:14 pmOur condolences to Rob, Michelle, Brian and their Families. Francine was a Special Person.
Scott and Penny Brough
Tony and Dawn Forbes says
October 28, 2025 at 6:48 pmWe are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you all as we send our deepest condolences 💐
Myrna D Scott says
October 28, 2025 at 7:12 pmPease accept my sincere condolences with respect to the passing of Francine.
As a PSW at Gateway Francine was an excellent care giver and always kind to the residents.
Robert Sanderson says
October 29, 2025 at 2:38 pmMy condolences to Brian and family
Neil and Shelley says
October 29, 2025 at 8:36 pmRob , Brian and Michelle
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Francine
Our thoughts and prayers will be with you as you move forward in the days to come
Have comfort knowing she is at peace now ❤️
Cathy Haefling says
October 29, 2025 at 8:38 pmRob & family,
Sorry to hear of Francine’s passing. My condolences to all the family.
Charlie Young says
October 29, 2025 at 9:54 pmRob , Brian and Michelle – words cannot describe how sorry I am to hear of Francine’s passing. I had the privilege of working with Francine where I witnessed daily her caring for others and genuine kindness. Even as I visited her at Gateway she still had that smile that made me be reminded again that she cared and wanted the world around her to be pleasant. I’m thankful for her influence on my life and believe she’s at rest and at peace. My daily prayers are with you all. Goodnight Francine I’ll see you in the morning Gods wonderful morning.
Louann and Dave And family says
October 30, 2025 at 5:23 pmOur deepest condolences
Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time , wishing you comfort and peace.
Susan Steffler says
October 31, 2025 at 12:28 pmOur sympathy goes out to you Rob and your family. I’ve known Francine for a long time and our family had a Grandmother, a Mother and Uncle and a Sister-in-Law at Gateway and she was so kind and caring to all she attended to. She will be missed by everyone that knew her.
She is at peace now and looking down on all her family.
Shelley Mills says
October 31, 2025 at 10:15 pmI had the pleasure of working with Francine at Gateway. She was both highly competent and caring I never had to worry when I worked with her because she always went out of her way to do the best for her residents. My sincere condolences to her family
Bonnie Ashcroft says
November 1, 2025 at 10:30 amRob, Brian, Michele and family it has been a pleasure to have meant you for these few years at the picnic. And more special when you brought your Mom this past summer. Brian, it was a special treasure when I seen your love for your Mom.
Bonnie Ashcroft
Linda Sullivan says
November 6, 2025 at 12:14 pmCondolences to Francine’s family, hugs and prayers
Roberta Davidson says
November 7, 2025 at 9:24 amPlease accept our sincere condolences for the loss of Francine. She will be remembered for her infectious smile, her love of story telling and her caring of others. Our thoughts are with you at this time. Hold fast to the many positive memories you have of her.
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