Frances was born and raised in Winnipeg, the third of six children (Marsha, Clarke, Neville, Donald, Susan). Frances received the Governor General's medal in grade 12, and graduated from St. John's Teachers' College (1965, Winnipeg). She taught high school briefly before switching to dance. Frances married Gerald Rank in 1969 and lived in Saskatoon for her last 54 years, where she and Gerald raised their two children (David and Shay).
From an early age, music and dance were central in Fran's life. She performed in choirs, musicals and ballets, as well as at Folkfest pavilions (flamenco and french folk dance). Frances was a pianist (grade 8), a singer, and above all, a ballerina (Royal Academy of Dance Advanced degree). She taught ballet, tap, jazz and flamenco at a variety of studios, including the University of Saskatchewan and Jasper Academy of Dance. She also played flute in Saskatoon's Philharmonic Orchestra, enjoyed ballroom dancing, sewed many dance costumes and did some acrylic painting.
A passionate and articulate woman, Frances would often start conversations with strangers, sharing her positive outlook and lightening their day. She was an avid reader, gardener and bird watcher until her last few years. As her dementia progressed, she was cared for at home by her children and died peacefully in her own bed. Frances is predeceased by her husband Gerald (2016), her parents (Frances Mary and Edward Raymond Peterman), and her brother Neville. She will be much missed by family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society.
Arrangements entrusted to Travis Minor.
