Francisco Sertal Arribas

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Francisco Sertal Arribas (Paco). After showing unbelievable strength and courage battling his illness for many years, Francisco passed away early Saturday morning at the General Hospital, surrounded by family and a tremendous amount of love.  Francisco was predeceased by his parents Francisco and Elvira, his brother Jose Manuel, and his in-laws Manuel and Dolores. Francisco is survived by Maria, his rock and loving wife of 53 years, his children Francisco (Anja) and Angela, his grandchildren Marcos and Carlos who were his absolute pride and joy, his sister Elvira (Joaquin), his sister-in-law Mercedes (Manolo), and sister-in-law Dolores. Francisco is also survived by his godchildren Pedro and Manuel, his nieces and nephews Miguel, Belen, Dolores, Mercedes, Manuel, Santiago, Paula and Pablo, all of whom he loved dearly. Francisco was also survived by many great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and great friends who were like family. 

Francisco, known by friends and family as Paco, and known by his many co-workers as Frank, was born August 26, 1947, in Sabaris and raised in Campañó, Pontevedra. He immigrated to Canada in 1971 to work for a year.  That one year turned into 53.  Maria followed a year later and thus began their life here.  Francisco worked in several fields of construction, amassing a tremendous amount of experience, skills and knowledge. Finally, Francisco settled into a career as a glazier with his beloved Local 200. Francisco was very skilled, and a perfectionist when it came to work; he believed it’s only worth doing if it’s done right.  Specializing in large commercial glass and aluminum installations, he was very proud of his trade and the hundreds of projects he was a part of.  As anyone who ever traveled any part of the City of Ottawa with him would know, he loved pointing out the work he had done, including many Ottawa landmarks.  Francisco was affectionately known to his immediate family as our King. He was extremely proud of the life he and Maria built.  His homes were his castles and it is where he was happiest, both here in Ottawa and in Poio, Pontevedra.  Francisco was extremely loved and there are no words to describe how deeply he will be missed. 

The family would like to thank Dr. Lothar Huebsch for his many years of care until his retirement. Also, the family would like to thank Dr. David MacDonald and Jessica Jackson.  Jessica was always very kind, caring and sympathetic, providing whatever assistance she could.  Dr. MacDonald always went above and beyond. Francisco was very fond of Dr. MacDonald and trusted him completely. It was this trust that allowed Francisco to remain strong and determined until the very end.    

Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Monday, November 18^th at Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa, ON) from 5-8pm.  A memorial service will take place on Tuesday, November 19^th at Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa, ON) at 1pm, followed by the inurnment.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada.