Frances Theresa Kruzer

Frances Kruzer (nee Balogh) was born at home in the Grove Park area on a very special day, February 14, 1939, the youngest of six children (all girls) to Charles and Anne Balogh.

At the age of 6, Frances moved with her family to the farm in Bangor where she fell in love with gardening and nature, particularly birds and butterflies. Frances grew up receiving schooling in a one room school house. By the age of 16, Frances left home to work. She lived with her sisters Margaret (Ernie) in Esterhazy where she worked at the old hospital, and Agnes (Joe) in Gladstone where she worked at a newspaper.

In 1956, Frances met the love of her life, Lloyd Kruzer, and they were married on August 12, 1957.

Their four children were born in Neepawa where they resided until 1965, when they moved to a farm close to Minnedosa, MB. While on the farm, Frances’ love of plants grew; tending huge flower and vegetable gardens and having many indoor plants. This love continued until her health only allowed for 1 or 2 plants.

Frances was very devoted to her children, making sure they never wanted for anything. She taught and raised her children in the Love of God our Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ our Lord, and the Blessed Virgin Mary. She was a life long member of the    Society of the Little Flower and greatly believed in Prayer.

Eventually Lloyd and Frances moved the family to Lynn Lake, MB in 1970 where they resided until 1989. During those years Frances continued to nurture her  children; hockey mom, figure skating parent and home referee (when needed). She loved camping, fishing and Sunday drives. Frances worked at the Hudson Bay Store for more than 15 years where she made many friends. She was involved in bringing a Union to the store and was an active Union Steward fighting for her and her fellow employee’s rights. It was then we saw the true feisty nature of this tiny person, Frances.

If Frances believed in something, she didn’t back down. She was very strong-willed and wouldn’t hesitate to speak her mind. She tried to instill in her children this strength of character.

During her earlier retirement Frances loved to yard sale; oh, the treasures she found! She used to set up a table at the lake and sell some of these finds, but sadly her health wouldn’t allow her to continue.

Frances enjoyed playing bingo and cards. She met so many people and enjoyed     everyone’s company. She deeply appreciated all the love and care she received while a resident at the Care Home. Frances was given to us for an extended period (a time we will all cherish) but in the end God had to call his daughter home.

Frances was predeceased by her husband Lloyd Kruzer; her mother and father Anne and Charles Balogh; her sister Eva Flavell and her sister Agnes Hando.  She is survived by her children Trevor (Rose), Dale, Grant (Guylaine) and Laurie (Aubrey); her sisters Anne Rogalski, Betty Herperger, and Margaret Niznuk; 7 grandsons, 2 great granddaughters, nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

She will be greatly missed!