Frances R. Simkins

Frances Ross Simkins, 102, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on September 17th at her home at Woodlake of New Hope, surrounded by the love of her family.

Fran lived an extraordinary life spanning more than a century, marked by resilience, curiosity, faith, kindness, and a deep devotion to those she loved.

She is survived by her daughters, Margaret Ann Bernheisel of Sequim, Washington, and Rebecca Todd Hartzler of Seattle, Washington; her stepchildren, Mary Susan Zavos of Charleston, South Carolina, Patricia Jane Thompson of Clinton, South Carolina, Joann Louise Thurman of Ammon, Idaho, John James Simkins of Eldorado, Kansas, Sara Elizabeth Simkins of San Antonio, Texas, George Stanley Simkins of St. Paul, Minnesota, Yazdin (Joe) Bakhsh of The Villages, Florida and Michael Than Thut of Burnsville, Minnesota; her cherished step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; and her sisters, Virginia Toohey, Rosemary O'Neil, and Anice Nixon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Loren and Virginia Ross; her beloved first husband of 46 years, Findley Enos "Rocky" Hartzler Jr.; her second husband, Charles "Chuck" Simkins; her son, Findley Enos "Sandy" Hartzler III; and her siblings Ellen, Robert, and Loren.

Fran's early years were shaped by the hardships of the Depression and Dust Bowl era, yet she carried from those experiences a resilience and optimism that would remain with her throughout her life. Born in Oberlin, Kansas, she moved with her family to Bonner Springs in 1936, where they made their home in the place affectionately known as "The Castle." Some of her fondest childhood memories were of summers spent with her grandmother in Norton, Kansas. It was there, through countless visits to the local library, that Fran discovered a lifelong love of books, learning, and language.

Encouraged by the librarian in Norton, who recognized her potential, Fran pursued higher education at Kansas State Teachers College, earning a bachelor's degree in English. There she met and fell in love with, Rocky Hartzler, and together they built a home and family while raising their three children.

As a high school English teacher, Fran shared her love of literature and writing with generations of students.

After Rocky's passing in 1992, Fran found love again. She married Charles "Chuck" Simkins in 1994, beginning a joyful new chapter that brought companionship, adventure, and travel. Together they explored the world, competed in golf tournaments, and shared many happy years centered around friends, family, and the game they both loved. During this time, Fran embraced the Catholic faith, a commitment that became an important part of her life.

When Chuck's health declined, they moved to St. Therese of New Hope, now Woodlake of New Hope. There, Fran formed lasting friendships and became a beloved member of the community. Among those friendships was her special bond with Marie Johnson, whose companionship brought her great joy. After Chuck's death in 2016, Fran continued to make Woodlake her home, touching the lives of many with her warmth and good humor.

To know Fran was to be welcomed by her smile. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel comfortable, valued, and heard. Whether she was sharing a story, enjoying a card game with friends, discussing a good book, or tending tomatoes on her patio, she brought enthusiasm and joy to everyday moments. Friends and family alike remember her as cheerful, gracious, endlessly curious, and genuinely interested in others.

In the last decade of her life, Fran was blessed to receive devoted care from her stepson, George Simkins, and his wife, Victoria Otis Simkins. During the COVID-19 pandemic, George and Victoria welcomed Fran into their home for 14 months to keep her safe. In the final year of her life, Victoria was instrumental in ensuring that Fran received loving and attentive care every day. The family is deeply grateful for their devotion and kindness.

The family would also like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Angela Mumbuwa who cared for Fran during the night for five years. In this past year Claudette Addae, Nicole Hoekstra, Kaisa Smith, and Angel Kiguha also provided compassionate care, friendship, and support. Their kindness, dedication, and presence brought comfort and joy to Fran's life and provided immeasurable peace of mind to those who loved her.

Fran's legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the students she taught, the friendships she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth, humor, and generosity. She will be remembered not only for the remarkable length of her life, but for the love, grace, and enthusiasm with which she lived it.

> In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to [MEMORIAL DONATION], a cause that reflects Fran's lifelong values and interests.