SAUGUS – Mr. Francis Anthony Sponholtz, "Fran", 83 of Saugus, formerly of Swampscott, died peacefully on Thursday, August 14th, 2025 at Salem Hospital and has joined the love of his life, Diane (LaCroix) Sponholtz for the rest of eternity.

Born in Boston, Fran was the son of the late Grace Sponholtz. He was raised and educated in Salem and was a graduate of Salem High School Class of 1959.  He also attended Wentworth Academy.

Fran devoted his entire professional working career to A. W. Chesterton Co. for 37 years.

In his younger days he was an avid bowler at Metro Bowl Peabody and won many trophies for his accomplishments.

A quiet and simple, yet stubborn man, Fran was a master of all trades when it came to his home. Always one to cross a project off his to-do list, Fran was happily retired and relished in his free time and the company of his loving family. Alongside his loving wife Diane, with whom he shared 60 wonderful years, they enjoyed traveling to different places, often with friends and were devoted to their faith where Fran served as a lector at Holy Family Catholic Church in Lynn. Fran will be remembered for his devotion to his loving wife, children and grandchildren and will be deeply missed.

Fran is survived by his children, Deborah Hines of Derry, NH, Chris and his wife, Sarah of Lynn, MA, Ann Marie Raymond and her husband, Jay of Lynn, MA, and his grandchildren John, Ryleigh and Brenna Hines, Adam and Katelyn Sponholtz, and Taylor Raymond.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friend are invited to attend Fran's funeral service which will be held at O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM on Friday, August 22nd at 12:30 P.M. with visiting hours to be held prior to the service from 11 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Fran's burial will be privately held. In lieu of flowers, donations in Fran's memory may be made to Mass General Brigham, c/o Salem Hospital Development Office, 81 Highland Ave., Salem, MA 01970. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com