Frances Josefa Kliewer Ward, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt, peacefully passed away on November 17, 2023, at the age of 89. Born on January 1st, 1934, in Los Angeles, California, Frances spent her childhood in Milford, California and attended Lassen High School in Susanville where she blossomed into a remarkable individual.
Frances’s life was greatly enriched when she met and married the love of her life, Jack Ward, in 1955. Together, they embarked on a beautiful journey filled with love, laughter, and adventure. As they moved around the United States, they created a loving home for their two children, Jack H. Ward Jr. and Michelle Yvonne Ward.
Throughout her life, Frances dedicated her time and energy to various endeavors. She worked at the Herlong Army Depot making ammunition and found fulfillment in volunteering for the Boy and Girl Scouts. Her devotion to service extended to her employment at California 1st Bank, where she made a lasting impact on those she served.
In her leisure time, Frances indulged in her passions for travel, crocheting and making the best lasagna. While exploring new destinations, she cherished the experience of immersing herself in different cultures and forging lasting memories. Crocheting brought her immense joy, as she crafted beautiful creations that she proudly shared with loved ones and did so up until her latest hospital stay.
Frances dedicated herself to her family, raising two wonderful children, Jack H. Ward Jr. and Michelle Yvonne Ward. She embraced motherhood with grace and love, leaving an indelible mark on her children’s lives.
Frances emanated warmth, kindness, and a steadfast love for her family. She is survived by her adoring son, Jack H. Ward Jr. (Michelle A Ward), and daughter, Michelle Yvonne Ward. Her grandchildren, Christine Jenkins (Mike Jenkins), Jessica Black (Audie Black) Michael Emerson, Joshua Warstillo (Krys Warstillo), Stephanie Reed, Dakota Keevil, Cody Keevil, and great-grandchildren Makayla Emerson, Alyssa Emerson, Sophia Reed, Greyson Reed, Penny Jenkins, Jimmie Jenkins, Everett Warstillo, Edison Warstillo, Kellen Black, and Liam Black. In addition, her sister Gloria Broomham (Barry Broomham) and sister (in law) Marilyn Kliewer, niece and genealogy partner in crime Marcie Kliewer Adams (Jeff Adams), Janice Kliewer O’Hara (Rob O’Hara), Nephews Rick Rosvall (Angela Rosvall), Dennis Rosvall (Jennifer Castle Rosvall), and Rob Broomham (Tracy Broomham). She was preceded in death by her loving husband Jack Ward, parents Frank Kliewer, Georgina Krejzova Kliewer, her brother George F. Kliewer, and infant sister, Marie M. Kliewer.
Frances leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love, generosity, and resilience. Her spirit will forever remain in the hearts and memories of her family and all those who were fortunate enough to know her. As we bid farewell to this remarkable soul, let us celebrate her life and the immeasurable impact she had on those around her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
And Mom, no roasting marshmallows…
