SHANKS, FRANCIS HAROLD Francis Harold Shanks C.Q.M.S. of Wirral NB passed away at the Oromocto Public Hospital on September 23, 2009 at the age of 88. Francis is survived by his wife, Pauline (Jones) Shanks; his loyal best canine friend, Sheena; three brothers-in-law, Arthur (Maxine) Jones, Keith (Esther) Jones, Robert (Alvina) Jones; several nieces and nephews. Francis was a long serving Elder of the Patterson United Church and was employed as a Plant Foreman at an asphalt plant in Saint John. He was an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #55, the Patterson United Church mens club and enjoyed being a volunteer auctioneer at community events. Francis participated in the liberation of Holland in WWII and was the first Royal Canadian Legion's Capital District Veteran of the year in 2005. The Position coincided with the year of the veteran and marks the first time such an honor has been bestowed upon a former soldier. Francis served in the North Atlantic area, United Kingdom and Europe. He was made a C.Q.M.S. and worked his magic in getting Canadian soldiers back home. Francis, one of the last to leave, arrived home in 1946. Francis was an over thirty year member of the Legion, having served on the organization's executive committee in a variety of positions. He is predeceased by his parents, Harold and Florence (Howell) Shanks and one infant son, William Harold; three sisters, Dorothy, Lena, Louise; and one brother, Donald. Relatives and friends are invited to Sunbury Funeral Home for visitation on Friday, September 25, 7 to 9 pm and Saturday, September 26, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm. A Legion Tribute will be held at 7 pm on Saturday. Funeral service will be from Patterson United Church in Wirral on Sunday, September 27, 2009 at 3:00 pm with the Rev. Jeffro Bursey and Rev. James MacDonald officiating. Interment to follow in the Patterson United Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #55, SPCA or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements are in the care of Sunbury Funeral Home, Central Blissville, NB (368-2413). Condolences: sunfun99@live.ca