In his 89th year, Frank Little passed away peacefully at Alexandra Marine & General Hospital on Friday, October 8, 2021. Beloved husband of Mildred (Smith) for 64 years. Dear father of Carolyn (Chris) Carter, John (Cathy Williams) Little, Nancy (Rob) Boyce. Loving grandfather of Mary Anne Carter (Connor Clune), Michael Carter, Katelyn Little, Jack Little, Erin Boyce (Tyler Johnston) and Scott Boyce. Predeceased by daughter in law Nancy Bedard, brothers Jack, Ford and Harry Little.
Known as an avid entrepreneur and businessman throughout his life, at the young age of 14, Frank opened his first business: a riding stable in Bayfield next to the existing community centre. He later moved the stable, known as “Doolittle Stables” to Grand Bend and simultaneously started Goderich’s first bowling alley: “Little Bowl” with his brother Harry Little in 1956. While Harry continued to operate Little Bowl, Frank managed Doolittle Stables until 1972. Following the sale of the riding stable, a horse lover through and through, Frank dabbled in standard bred harness racing; but ultimately opted to take on a new challenge and opened ABC Investments in Goderich in 1981. 40 years later, ABC Investments continues to be a family run business, and Frank was proud to have all three of his children manage its operations.
While Frank was extremely proud of his various business ventures over the years, it goes without saying that he was equally proud of his family. He would often remind his children and grandchildren alike of the importance of one’s family, and was routinely found sitting around the kitchen table playing a game of euchre, while sharing countless stories and advice, making everyone laugh.
A private family service will be held at Maitland Cemetery. Donations to Alexandra Marine & General Hospital Foundation or the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society gratefully acknowledged. The family would like to thank Drs. Stan and Kim Spacek and the staff of Alexandra Marine & General Hospital for all their care and compassion. Friends may sign the book of condolences at www.mccallupalla.ca
Frank was an inspiration and role model to many, and will be dearly missed and cherished for years to come.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Roxanne Kernighan
We are thinking of you Millie, Carolyn, John, Nancy and families at this difficult time of loss and we send our sincere condolences. Roxanne Kernighan and Bruce Melick
David Little
Frank was the best and such a kind man. I have a lot of fond memories of his patio and running around his massive yard as a child. He will be missed.
Marilyn Little
Millie and family I was deeply saddened to learn of Franks passing. No words can express the sorrow you must be feeling. He will be greatly missed. Marilyn
Wendy Hallman
We are so sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. He was such a great neighbour, always stopping to wave or chat when he saw us. I remember a few years ago, our boys were outside playing in a snowbank across from his house. He called us just to tell us how much they were enjoying watching our kids play from their front window. I’ll always remember that. You are all in our thoughts.
Rod and Jean Jervis
We were sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. Extending our very deepest sympathy to all of his family and thinking of you during this very sad time.
Becky & Eugene Bender
We were very saddened to hear that Frank had passed away. He was always so personable whenever we saw him, and we value our association with the Little family. Our heartfelt condolences to Millie, Carolyn, John, Nancy and all of your family.
Becky & Gene Bender
Mike Jeffrey
My sympathy to Frank’s family. Frank was good customer of mine. RIP Frank
Sharon Sanders
Nancy, Rob, Erin. Scott and Family. I am so sorry for your loss. Keep your memories close to your heart.
Jean Delbergue
Sorry to hear of Frank passing. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Anne Miller
Millie, Carolyn and family. So very sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. When I was very young and lived beside you, Frank was like a second father to me. Always so much fun. I will remember him with a cigar in his mouth and a twinkle in his eye. He will surely be missed. Anne and Randy Miller
Kenneth Palen
Our deepest sympathies Ken Palen, Kenpal Farm Products and staff.
Shannon Stewart
Dear Millie, Carolyn, John, Nancy and family,
I hope you can find solace in the loving memories you have of Frank. He was a thoughtful, kind man who always had time for a interesting conversation and a good laugh. He was a kind, thoughtful individual who I will always remember fondly. Thinking of you all, Shannon
Dianne Leddy
To the Little family
We were sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. Treasure the memories
RIP Frank
Dianne and Harold
Ron & June Corriveau
To Carolyn, John, Nancy and your Mom: We are very sorry to hear Frank has passed away. Back in 1981 he introduced us to the importance of investing and insurance. I enjoyed the fact his advice came with a little dry sense of humor. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
Ron & June
Mike Jeffrey
My sympathy to Frank’s family. Was a good customer for many years. RIP Frank
Connie and John Harrison
Our condolences go to the family of Frank Little. Carolyn, Nancy and John “you had a wonderful father” let the memories live on. Thinking of you at the time, John and Connie Harrison
Bev and Brian Jeffray
Our sincerest condolences to Millie, John, Cathy, Carolyn,Chris, Nancy, Rob and all all of the Little family.
Frank was a kind gentleman, with a friendly personality and great smile!
We are very sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Bev and Brian
Alice Nivins Yuill
Sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. He was a very special friend to my father. Thinking of your family during this difficult time. A truly great man.
Jane Groves
Millie and Family: We are saddened to read of cousin Frank’s passing. He was such a great guy to chat with whenever we met him at the local track or in the grocery store. The business of his horseback rides was a reminder of when I tried that . Millie, we send our sincere sympathy. Clayton and Jane
Alex Nivins
Sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers.
Alex Nivins and Sandra Pridham
Steve and Angie Hewitt
Our deepest condolences to entire Little family. Thinking of you all. The Hewitt Family
Mary Lynn & David Weaver
Dear Millie, Carolyn, John, my dearest friend Nancy and families;
Frank was so incredibly proud of all of you and his grandchildren. It was truly a pleasure to have known Frank over the years. May all the lovely memories you have comfort you during this very difficult time.
Justin and Hayley van Diepen
We are thinking of the Little Family during this tough time. I will always remember his welcoming presence and gentle soul. Ball game starts soon Mr. Little.
John Banter
My sincere sympathies to Millie and Family. Frank was a client of mine for many years, always had a friendly chit chat when he came into the office. I remember when he started ABC investments, and he was so proud of the fact that his children were running the business and having great success. He was a colourful figure, had strong points of view on certain subjects, but was a strong advocate for the Town and business. R.I.P. Frank
Terry Dick
Millie and Family – Sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. You all have many memories of happier times and stories to tell for Generations to come.
Jim and Terry Dick
Dominique Clune
So sorry to hear of the passing of your husband, father and grand-father Sorry for your loss. Love and prayers for all the families.
Mary and Phil vanDiepen
We don’t think anyone who ever met Frank could forget him. He had a genuine interest in everyone he met, an enjoyable story, and always a big smile. We are sure he is surrounded by old friends and family in heaven sharing a good laugh. We will be thinking of you all during the upcoming days. You are fortunate to have so many wonderful memories to keep Frank alive.
KAREN STURDY
TO. MILLIE AND THE LITTLE FAMILY;
AN OLD FRIEND, AN OLD NEIGHBOUR, FRANK WAS THAT TO US. WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER AND THINK OF HIM IN THAT WAY. WE ARE SORRY THAT HE HAS PASSED. PLEASE ACCEPT OUR CONDOLENCES. KAREN , JAMEY STURDY , MIKE RUSSELO
Jim and Pat Martin
Dear Millie, John, Carolyn, Nancy and Families. We are sending our sincere condolences on the loss of your husband and father. Frank was a mover and a shaker. He had time for everyone. We enjoyed Frank and exchanged greetings whenever we met. We will miss seeing him. May the memories you shared while playing cards be forever a happy conversation.
Steve Gardiner
Our condolences to the Little family. Frank was very kind and interesting man. Always enjoyed talking to him.
Steve and Lori Gardiner
Cecelia Denomme
Dear Millie – you , Frank and your family are a special part of our community.
With sympathy and special thoughts.
Sincerely – Cecelia and Don Denomme
Evelyn boyce
Millie & family I am sadened To hear Of Franks passking may his memories help get you thru time
l
Glenn Green
So sorry for your loss John and family. Your Dad and I would usually have a chuckle or two at the grandson’s hockey games.
Dave Brereton
Patty and I were so saddened to hear about the passing of Frank…we have been close neighbours of the Littles for over 40 years and our kids so enjoyed watching Frank harness and ride his horses from his barn in his parents backyard to train at the Goderich track..our daughter Leslie when she was young would always get so excited to see Frank and yell at us to come see ‘Mr Small ride his Horse…lol”..Frank was an incredibly good neighbour and friend…he will be very much remembered by us and his neighbours..love and condolences are sent to Millie and all his family…patty and Dave Brereton.
Joanne Walters
Dear Milly, Carolyn, John, Nancy & families,
So sorry to hear of your loss. We hope that many cherished memories will help ease your heartache in time.
Sincerely,
the Walters family
Janet Caesar
Dear Millie and Family.I’m so sorry to hear of Franks passing.He was a Great Guy.I had alot of laughs with Frank and Millie.I’ll sure miss our chats.Oh and that smile of his.He was so proud of All his Family.Cherish all the good memories you’s have made.R.I.P Frankie.Janet Caesar
Ken/Shirley Boyce
Our sincere condolences Millie,John, Carolyn, Nancy and families
We have been both proud and honoured to have had Frank part of our extended family for the past 25 years. I do believe he considered his close knit, loving family as his greatest achievement in life. He will be very much missed by his many friends and family. Hugs and love..Ken and Shirley xo
Pat Johnston
Millie, Carolyn, Nancy, John, Erin, Tyler and the rest of Frank’s family
We were very saddened to read of Frank’s passing, thinking of you at this sad time. May you find peace and comfort in the many memories that you have of him.
Pat Johnston & Bob Desjardins
Judi williams
My deepest sympathy to Mildred, and all the families at this difficult time.. RIP Frank…
Lesley Walker
So sorry to hear of the passing of a great man. Sorry for your loss. Love and prayers for all the families
Barry and Monica Page
We wish to express our deepest sympathy to Carolyn, Nancy and John on the loss of their father. Having been clients of ABC Investments since it first opened on West Street, we got to know Frank very well, and still appreciate the help and guidance he gave us over the years.
Leone Ryan
Millie, John, Carolyn, Nancy and families. Sincere condolences at this most difficult time. Never easy losing a loved one! Cherish your memories! Leone Ryan.
Paula & Jeff McAuley
Sincere condolences to your family. We’ve had the pleasure of being neighbours to Frank & Milly for the past 13 years on Doolittle Lane. Thinking of all of you at this time.
Ken Hunking
‘Carolyn, John and Nancy: My sympathy to you on your father’s death.
Richard Jennison
Milly and Family,
Many years ago as a kid in Grand Bend , I had the good fortune to meet and work for Frank at the horse stables behind our home. For $2.00 a week , Frank paid us to do something we loved , and I was lucky enough to carry that train of thought thoughout my working career. Great memories of Frank chomping away on his cigar , organizing trail rides and us guides for tours around outskirts of Grand Bend. Still remember most of the names of the horses!! And Frank was so kind and patient with us. Never ever heard an unkind word and I’m sure he must have shook his head more than once at some of the antics we were up to. Ran into Frank several times over the years and always had a laugh and a warm handshake. Our thoughts and prayers to his much loved family.
Richard Jennison
Bill Clifford
Sincere condolences to all the Little family. I knew him as an Office Neighbor, and Business Associate. He always had a smile on is face, a glint in his eye, and great sense of humor.
Lori & Doug Hildebrand
Milly, Carolyn, John and Nancy our condolences on hearing about uncle Frank. Our thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Karen McCallum
Sincere Condolences on the loss of your Father and Grandfather. You are all in my thoughts.
Heather Little
Thinking of you all at this time of sorrow. Never easy to loose a loved one. Frank was a giving and generous man to many. He will be greatly missed. Heather
Jim Bissett
To the Little Family , sorry to hear of your loss.
Jim and Family
Barbara Desjardins
We want to express our sympathy in your great loss. What an inspiration he was and a genuine role model. Our sincere condolences, Barbara Desjardins and Bill Hayden
Norah Purser
Dear Millie, Caroline, John and Nancy.. and families,
I will always remember Frank cheering on our Rivetts ball team and offering words of wisdom. He and Millie were always like a second home…. We shared a birthday, will offer cheers on our day. RIP … 🙏🏻