Frances Jane Converse

Frances Jane Converse, age 92, of Canton, passed away Wednesday, August 14, 2013. Frances was born on July 18, 1921 in Massillon the daughter of the late Katherine and John Steele. Fran was a lifelong resident of the area and a 1939 graduate of Washington High School. She met Dick Converse and after knowing each other for 3 months they ran away to Kentucky and got married. Fran and Dick were married for 72 years before his death in 2011. Fran was a stay at home mom until her four children were in school. She became a receptionist for Jim Snively, who was a dentist and Sam Slack, who was a Methodist counselor. Fran enjoyed staying busy either sewing, crocheting, or knitting. The family still cherishes the crafts she created. Fran and Dick enjoyed dancing, camping, traveling, and made many friends along the way. They loved following family activities. Her love of family, mysteries and puzzles led Fran and Dick on a family background search. She loved to cook and try out new recipes especially for birthdays and special occasions. They were active members of Central Presbyterian Church and then Christ Presbyterian Church, Ohio Genealogical Society, and The Massillon Museum where they enjoyed the Brown Bag luncheons. Along with her parents, and husband, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary Gossage, Alice Walker Creter, and her granddaughter, Rachel Converse. She leaves to cherish her memory, her children and their spouses, Rich (Nancy) Converse, Sue (Warren) Lancaster, Jim (Judy) Converse, and Gary Converse; 9 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. A special thanks to the Canton Christian Home and Bethany for their compassion and care. A Celebration of Frances's Life will be held on Monday, August 19, 2013 at 1:30 p.m. at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon. Pastor Dave de Vries will be officiating. Inurnment will follow at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Camp Wakonda c/o Christ Presbyterian Church. Messages of comfort and support may be sent to the family at www.paquelet.com. Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory (330) 833-3222