Frances Mary Gagnon

Obituary Frances Gagnon Frances Gagnon, 86, died surrounded by her family's love at sunset on Palm Sunday. Born on June 21, 1927 in Tacoma, Washington, Frances was a talented vocalist and attended Seattle University on a music scholarship. It was there that she met Donald, her husband and one love of 64 years. She chose to leave her promising singing career to marry Don in 1949 and start a family. Frances was a wife and mother as well as a gifted cook, seamstress, gardener, florist and music teacher. Known for her elaborate April Fool's Day tricks, she also put great effort into making every holiday memorable for her children and never forgot a birthday. She prepared many wonderful meals for her family and friends over the years. Her deep Catholic faith was expressed in her love for the poor, the hungry, the homeless, and disabled. Putting others first, never keeping the best for herself. She was a volunteer cook at St. Leo's Hospitality Kitchen for 18 years, retiring at age 75. Never one to beat around the bush, Frances gave it to you straight, but she also enjoyed testing her Irish luck at the casino. Always a lover of nature and animals she taught her children to respect nature and the environment. She was and is deeply loved by her friends, family and those who knew her. She is survived by her husband, Donald; brother-in-law, Paul; and her children, Renee (Wayne), Don Jr. (Karin), Michele (Steven), and John (Annette); and grandchildren, Aura (Justin), John, Croix, Peter, Theresa (Jose Carlos), Forrest, and Jacqueline; and great grandchild, Beau. A Funeral Mass for Frances will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at 11:00am at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Gig Harbor followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made in Frances' honor to Guadalupe House, 1417 South G Street, Tacoma, WA 98405, or Catherine Place, 923 South 8th Street, Tacoma, WA 98405. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.