Frances Gladys Manser

November 1, 1932 - June 21, 2012

Our brave and beautiful Frances is finally at peace after a long battle with ovarian cancer. Though she faced incredible challenges and endured so much, she never complained and remained stoic and optimistic to the end. Her courage, dignity and grace continue to inspire us every day.

Frances was born on November 1, 1932. She grew up in Flint, Michigan with her parents Frank and Gladys Hachtel and older sister Virginia. The family spent winters in Florida and Frances attended school there. She loved sunbathing and was an accomplished golfer, winning many championships.

Frances graduated from Northwestern University in 1954. She was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority and was crowned “Syllabus Queen” and “Miss Northwestern”. She also earned the title of “Miss Sea Breeze” of the Palm Beaches.

After college Frances made a transatlantic voyage to Europe on the Queen Mary and then began working at her fatherʼs real estate office in Flint. She also did some modeling and was featured in numerous hair shows.

In 1960, she drove out to California and started working at N.W. Ayer Advertising Agency. It was there that she met her husband to be, Edward. They were married in Palm Springs in 1962 and went on to have two daughters, Stephanie and Stacey. They moved from Hollywood to Thousand Oaks in 1964, and finally to Westlake Village in 1970. It has been home to Frances and Edward ever since.

Frances dedicated herself completely to being an amazing mother. Her family was the most important thing to her and she did everything she could for them. She kept track of everyone and everything, and her attention to detail was unparalleled. She was incredibly loving, generous and devoted to her family throughout her life. Even though she didnʼt get to see them often enough, she had a close bond with her relatives in Michigan. She loved her sister Virginia and brother in law Bruce and their two daughters Linda and Laurie.

In the 90ʼs Frances obtained her real estate license and worked at Pardee Housing developments. She was a valued member of their team and made many good friends.

Frances loved animals and had dogs, cats and horses throughout her life. They brought her such joy. She never wanted her home to be without the loving spirit of a dog. Her sweet Golden Retriever, Chloe, helped her get through the tough times when she was first diagnosed with cancer. After Chloe passed, Frances rescued her beloved German Shepherd, Paco. He was instantly devoted to her and they shared a very special bond.

Frances enjoyed fashion and was always stylishly dressed. She was interested in the latest news stories as well as what was happening in pop culture and the performing arts. She loved listening to live music. Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Steve Tyrell were some of her favorites.

Her happiest times were spent with family. She loved getting together for dinners and happy hours, trips to Palm Desert, cruises and just hanging out at home all together.

Frances passed away at home on June 21, 2012. It was her motherʼs birthday.

We all miss her terribly...our hearts are aching. She brought us so much joy and we have been incredibly blessed to have had her in our lives. There is no way to express how much she means to us. She is, as the song says, “unforgettable in every way.” We love her so very much and will continue to honor and celebrate her life, knowing that she is with us always.

We love you so much Mom! You are in our hearts forever.

Frances dearly loved animals. In lieu of fowers, a donation in Francesʼs memory may be made to any of the following rescue organizations:

Westside German Shepherd Rescue - www.sheprescue.org

Golden Retriever Club of Greater Los Angeles Rescue - www.grcglarescue.org

Westside German Shepherd Rescue - www.sheprescue.org

Dogs Without Borders - www.dogswithoutborders.org

Hope for Paws - www.hopeforpaws.org