‘Curran carries the very spirit of Ireland in his heart’

When the call came out to select the grand marshal for Methuen’s first St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the perfect choice was none other than Francis T. Curran, a true Irishman with 97% Irish running through him and 3% Slovak.

Francis “Frank” Thomas Curran is a longtime city resident with Irish roots tracing back to both sets of grandparents who came from Cork and Connemara, Ireland. Frank is one of nine siblings and holds his Irish roots close to him.

Frank served in the Army from 1958-1961 as a heavy-equipment operator. He was called back to duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis from 1961-1962. In 1967, he met his bride-to-be, Patricia, at the Merrimack Club during college night; they have been married for 57 years. They raised two daughters – Tricia and Raina – in Methuen and are the proud grandparents of five.

Frank said of being chosen grand marshal, an announcement made during last month’s parade fund-raiser at the Irish Cottage, “It is quite an honor. I was very surprised. Many people are worthy of this honor, but I am really proud of our history, our culture, our music.”
Patricia said, “I am very proud of Frank and of him being chosen as the grand marshal. It is well deserved.”

State Rep. Ryan Hamilton, who is helping to organize the parade and sought nominations for grand marshal, said, “Frank Curran carries the very spirit of Ireland in his heart, the quiet strength, unwavering loyalty, and deep devotion to community that have defined the Irish people for generations. Like so many proud sons of Ireland before him, Frank answered the call to serve, wearing the uniform of the United States Army with honor and courage, standing tall for his country and for the brothers beside him.

“Here at home, he has lived the true Irish tradition of helping neighbors while never seeking recognition, but always ready with a steady hand, a warm smile and a story that brings people together. His life reflects the very soul of Irish heritage: faith in one another, pride of place, and an unbreakable love of home and community,” Hamilton continued. “It is these qualities that are forged in service, rooted in heritage and lived every day that make Frank Curran a truly worthy Grand Marshal.”

Frank has also been known to sing some hearty Irish tunes at the Irish Cottage as well as play a tin whistle.