It is with deep love and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Francoise Highfield, who left us peacefully on October 22, 2025, just days before her 91st birthday. Francoise lived a vibrant and joyful life, filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments that will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew her.
Born in SandyHill Ottawa, Francoise was one of twelve siblings, growing up in a lively household that shaped her spirited personality and love for storytelling. Her life was a tapestry of adventure, humor, and resilience — from her days in Germany with her first husband, Paul Desmarais, where she gave birth to her two beloved sons, Peter and Paddy, to her cherished memories of family gatherings, dancing, and dressing up to bring joy to others.
She was married three times, each chapter marked by deep companionship and love. Her first marriage was to Paul Desmarais, though they later divorced, Francoise always spoke fondly of their shared experiences. She was predeceased by Paul, as well as her second husband, Donald (Donny) Highfield, who held a very special place in her heart. She is survived by her devoted third husband, Neil Burke, whose love and partnership brought her comfort and happiness in her later years.
Despite facing profound loss — including the passing of all her siblings and her dear sons Peter and Paddy — Francoise remained a pillar of strength and grace. She leaves behind her loving daughter, Brenda Duchene, and son-in-law Kevin Duchene, along with six grandchildren: Leo, Samantha, Vanessa, Chantal, Melissa and Lowen, who will carry forward her legacy of warmth, humor, and resilience.
She is also lovingly remembered by Neil’s sons — Gary, David and Brian — and their families, who embraced Francoise as their own mother and grandmother.
Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Friday October 31, at 12 p.m. , at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (the Beechwood National Memorial Centre), located at 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa followed by the interment at 1 p.m. and a reception from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Francoise was the life of every party, always ready with a joke, a story, or a spontaneous dance. Her ability to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories was a gift to all who knew her.
Thank you, Fran for your laughter, your love, and your light. You were truly unforgettable.
Livre de visiteurs
Sue Mousseau
Alex St. Germain
A second mother, who could touch my heart.
Romeo & Dorine Savard
We will cherish the memories of the beautiful friendship with Fran & Neil ♥️ She was a lovely lady who made everyone feel special
Forever in our hearts 💕
Shawn Ryan
My dear aunt Fran… so many incredible memories over the past 60 years. I remember a long time ago going to visit her and the family family on the East Coast, I think it was the Gagetown base; and then the times we used to go over and visit her and the kids at their house on the Upland’s base looking forward to a new adventure. Throughout all these years, she would always greet me with a smile and a hug. Her sense of humour was uncanny and amazingly she would always remember everybody’s birthday. i’ll never forget the time we were all over at hers and Don‘s place for Christmas dinner and she pulled the turkey out and it wasn’t cooked. Lol well at least we had lots to drink !! Ever since she lost her best friend and sister (my mom) in 2015, she would smile with a tear in her eye every time she saw me, as the wonderful memories would resurface! Thank you for keeping the Bleoo Legacy going so long and for being such an amazing woman… you’ll be surely missed, I love you and God bless you! Peace I leave with you;my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 🤗🙏🏼
Nick ,Tina and Zenio Arnone
Visiting the Willowbend retirement home will never be the same, as I always looked forward to hosting those fun casino events and sharing laughs with good ol' Aunt Fran and Uncle Neil and all of the residents waiting to play games with us for prizes and fun jokes. I still see Fran jumping from table to table looking for her LUCKY SPOT...SHE WAS RIGHT IT WORKED !!!
GREAT MEMORIES . GOD BLESS HER.
Jo-Ann Taylor
Fran was a very special person and loved by all! I’ll always remember her smile and always laughing and dancing!! My deepest condolences to the family ❤️😘
Brian O'CONNOR
There is a say so much about my ann.Fran, what a pleasant person to be around even though she went through unbelievable hard times she still had her arms open and loved everybody.Her smile was contagious.You had the laugh and hugger.She was a gift from god to give to us.And to remember that love is free.And she gave it all.
Roberta and George
We will cherish the memories we have of the wonderful trips we took together. You were fun, kind, full of life and always ready for the next adventure.
You lit the room with your smile and sense of humour. You will be sadly missed. A great loss to us all.
Despite your fear of heights, you are now soaring with the angels.
Sue Saikaley-Evans
Dear Brenda,
Hoping all the fond memories you have of your mother will bring you comfort.
She will be remembered for being kind and friendly, and of course, her beautiful smile, and the sound of laughter.
She was a beautiful soul 😇🙏.
I will not only miss you as my aunt but also as my friend. We shared so many special times together, shopping, lunch and dinner out and most of all our Friday night happy hour. It was such a joy to be around you and Neil, we laughed and cried together, I will truly miss you😢🙏