Frank James O’Rourke was a native San Franciscan and a lifelong parishioner of St. Paul’s Parish. He attended St. Paul’s Grammar School and Sacred Heart High School. Frank took great pride in his Noe Valley roots. He was also very proud of his Irish heritage, and enjoyed all things Irish. Frank was a member of the greatest generation, volunteering at age 17 to join the United States Navy and serving in the South Pacific with the Navy Armed Guard.
He was a devoted husband and father who exemplified all of those great character traits that one could only hope to embody. He was a man of quiet faith, who led by example. He taught his children the importance of family, honor, loyalty, perseverance, respect, and most of all, the importance of maintaining a constant relationship with God.
Frank joined the San Francisco Fire Department, where he served with distinction for thirty-one years as a proud member of Local 798. After he retired as the Captain of Engine 15, he maintained camaraderie with his fellow firefighters as a member of the San Francisco Retired Firefighters Association.
Frank was a volunteer at Kaiser Permanente with the Mended Hearts. He also was a Charter Member of the United Irish Cultural Center. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed traveling with the love of his life, Mary. Their many trips to Ireland were especially memorable, visiting family and tracing his Irish roots.
A true native San Franciscan, Frank loved the home teams. He spent countless hours watching the Giants and the Niners and he especially enjoyed the Warriors championship run. He also followed Notre Dame Football, and seldom missed a televised game.
Frank was known for his wonderful sense of humor, his words of wisdom and his engaging story telling. Frank lived a wonderful life. He was loved by many and respected by all. Frank’s devoted wife of 63 years, Mary, their seven children and their families are very proud and grateful that he has been named Honorary Grand Marshal of the 2017 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. They know he would truly be humbled by this great honor.