Jan Moffett Fraser's Obituary
It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Captain Jan M. Fraser, age 86, of Tavares, Florida, on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. He was born on May 13, 1940, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, to the late James L. Fraser and Nonie H.E. Fraser (Moffett).
Captain Fraser enjoyed growing up in Marion, Massachusetts and Fort Lauderdale, Florida before enrolling in the Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, following in the footsteps of his father as a Merchant Mariner.
Captain Fraser dedicated over 45 years of his professional life working his way up the ranks from first mate to master in the Merchant Marine. He served as master for 25 years, a role in which he was known for his strong work ethic, skill and reliability. He proudly sailed with American Export Lines, which then became Farrell Lines, traveling all around the world by sea, carrying with him the values of service and commitment throughout his life.
In 1978, the family relocated from Bourne, Massachusetts to Orlando, Florida, where he would reside for nearly three decades, building a life surrounded by family and friends. He moved to Tavares, Florida and has resided for the past two decades after his retirement from Farrell Lines.
Outside of his career, Captain Fraser had a passion for sports cars and found great joy in his expensive hobby. He loved the hunt for exotic cars, fixing them up, and reselling them. He owned over 300 cars over the years. His most prized possessions were his three Mercedes Gullwing sportscars that he had the privilege of owning in his lifetime. He loved attending stock car races when he could and collected memorabilia of the late Dale Earnhardt.
Captain Fraser is survived by his constant companion in every aspect of his life, wife of 62 years, Andrea Fraser (Bassett); his three daughters Erika Lima (Jeffery), Wanda Walkowiak (Andrew) and Sara Dees (George). Known as “Grampa” to his grandchildren, Adam (Andrea), Lauren, Kassidy (Jake), Karlee, Alissa, Alex (Brooklyn), Avery, Aiden, as well as his great grandchildren Ava, Anniston and Noah. Predeceased by his beloved parents and brother Roy M. Fraser.
Funeral services will be held at Steverson, Hamlin and Hilbish in Tavares Florida on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. The family will host a luncheon at Lake Eustis Waterfront Grille, in Eustis, Florida immediately following the funeral services. Private burial to follow at Pine Forest Cemetery in Mount Dora, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Captain Jan Fraser will be remembered for his devotion to his wife, and the kindness and generosity that he showed to those friends and family who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever anchored in the hearts of those who knew him.
Always remember the Captain’s Rules, which are #1 The Captain is always right #2 If you have any question, refer to rule #1.
“Through the strongest of storms or the softest breeze, hear the wind and think of me.”
Fair winds and following seas, Captain.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Steverson Hamlin & Hilbish Funerals and Cremations, 226 E. Burleigh Blvd., Tavares, FL, 32778. (352)343-4444. Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall at https://www.steversonhamlinhilbish.com
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