Frances ALLEN

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ALLEN: It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our wife, mother and grandmother, Frances Laverne Allen on July 27, 2009 at the age of 58, after a short, courageous battle with cancer. Frances was born November 5, 1950 in Ste. Rose, Manitoba. She was the youngest of two daughters born to Luella and Bill Cartwright. Frances grew up in the Birnie area where she attended school nearby for her early years and then continued on to attend NACI in Neepawa graduating in 1969. Right after high school she went to work full time at the BRHC in the Nutrition Services area until her retirement in 2007. In 1966 Frances met her soulmate Bob and on April 11, 1970 they were married. They made their first home together in Brandon. In 1975 they were blessed with their first child Sandra and again in 1977 when their son Curtis arrived, at that time they moved to the Douglas area and remained there until her passing. Frances became quite involved in the community. In her younger years she regularly curled, was a 20 year member of the Douglas Women’s Institute, where she wore many hats including president, vice president, and secretary treasurer. She was also actively involved at the church where she served as superintendent, part of the Pastoral Charge Board and a teacher for the Sunday School and on Wednesday evenings she could be found playing Bingo. Frances enjoyed spending time at their cottage in Country Side Estates where she enjoyed nothing better than sitting under a tree reading a book. She spent many hours watching curling or cheering for her Blue Jays. In the winter time Frances and Bob enjoyed getting away to somewhere warm where they enjoyed relaxing and seeing the sites. Most recently returning from Jamaica before Frances became ill. Since her retirement she had more time to herself and more time to spend with her three grandchildren. She is survived by her husband Bob of 39 years, daughter Sandra (Bruce) Bayes, grandchildren Colton, Jordan, and Jessica; son Curtis (Krista LaFournie). She is also survived by her sister Joyce Kohinski and several other relatives. A celebration of Frances’ life was held Thursday, July 30, 2009 at the Central United Church and the service of committal was at Hamiota Cemetery. Donations in memory of Frances can be made to the Palliative Care Ward at the BRHC, 150 McTavish Avenue East, R7A 3B2.

As published in Brandon Sun on Aug 15, 2009