Frances Church

Frances (Fran) Church passed away peacefully on February 9, at Boundary Waters Care Center in Ely, MN. She was born on December 27, 1933, in Dexter, ME. Fran married Donald Church on January 28, 1956, in Saco, ME. They shared 63 years together before he passed away.

Fran loved family dinners served with more vegetables and homemade pies than one could imagine. She was a lively conversationalist, especially while quilting with the ladies at Ely’s First Lutheran Church or over coffee with friends at Carefree Living. Throughout her life she found joy in knitting, crocheting and a wide variety of craft projects - many of which have become treasured family keepsakes. She was a member of The Order of Eastern Star, attaining rank of Worthy Matron. Fran walked closely with God throughout her life.

Fran was pre-deceased by her husband, Donald; parents Roy and Myrtle Watson; brother Rodney (Irene); and sisters, Dorothy (Howard) and Madeline. 

She will be forever missed by her children Elaine (Wayne) and Edward (Margie); grandchildren Sara (Ben), Emily (Mike), Zachary (Gretchen), and Dylan (Courtney); great-grandchildren Carter, Caylee, and Riley; sisters-in-law Mary, Roberta, and Lucille (Bob); and several nieces and nephews. 

Funeral Service will be held Saturday, February 28, at 2 p.m., with visitation at 1 p.m., at First Lutheran Church in Ely, MN. Private interment at a later date.

Family arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home in Ely.

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