Frances Lorraine Ivelia

Frances Lorraine Ivelia, a lifelong resident of Everett, Washington, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 5th, surrounded by the love of her family and grounded in deep faith. Her calm and steady spirit, even in her final days, was a reflection of the strength and grace she carried throughout her life.

Fran was born in Everett to Gwendolyn and William John Bates and was the youngest of five siblings - Sonny, Chuck, Marie, and Joetta. She spent her early childhood on Ebey Island, surrounded by animals and open fields, and fondly remembered winters spent ice skating. The family later relocated to North Everett. In her teenage years, Don French (stepdad) became an influential part of her life.

She attended North Junior High, where she was known for her love of sports - whether on the playground or in the neighborhood - and later graduated from Everett High School in 1956. During high school, Fran formed a lifelong friendship with Frauna Barcott (Hoglund), who would later introduce her to the love of her life, Richard Ivelia.

Fran and Richard married in 1957 and shared 67 years together before his passing in 2024. Fran cherished the moments they shared as their story unfolded - a true testament to unwavering love and loyalty.

Together, Richard and Fran raised four children in Richard’s childhood home in Everett and made the deliberate and loving choice to send them to Immaculate Conception Catholic School - Richard’s alma mater. Fran was deeply involved in the school community, volunteering countless hours and often recognized for her loyal and selfless service. She also gave decades of her time to the St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank and spent 31 years volunteering at the Sausage Fest, a tradition she loved.

Fran was the heart of her home - always making sure her children left each morning with a hot breakfast and a homemade lunch. Preparing food for others was her love language. She never arrived at a gathering empty-handed and found deep joy in sharing meals and making people feel cared for. She had a passion for cooking and could often be found thumbing through cookbooks in search of new culinary inspiration. She was also a master seamstress, skillfully crafting wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and garments for loved ones’ special occasions.

Fran’s love of sports spanned generations. From her own school days as an athlete to cheering at her children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s events, she rarely missed a game. She brought unmatched energy and anticipation to every competition - her heart racing with excitement even before she arrived.

She and Richard were longtime members at Tulare Beach, where they spent countless weekends and summers. After years of renting, Fran eventually convinced Richard in retirement to build their new home at the beach - a dream come true for her. Fran loved the water and the peacefulness it brought. Tulare became the backdrop for birthdays, holidays, and impromptu gatherings - moments always centered on family, laughter, and her legendary cooking.

Fran was proud of her heritage and her Tribal membership to the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, a meaningful and grounding part of her identity.

She will be remembered for her loyalty, her steady and loving presence, her generous spirit, her sense of humor, and the values that shaped her life and inspired those who know her best. She found joy in family traditions and built a home that reflected all she valued: love, faith, generosity, and connection.

Fran is survived by her children, Tammi (Terry*) Gleason, Rick (Debbie) Ivelia, and Vince (Leslie) Ivelia; six grandchildren, Kevin (Jill), Tony (Colleen), Ricky (Katelyn), Rachel (Nico), Andrew (Francesca), Adam (Olivia); and eight great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind 23 nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard, her parents and siblings, her beloved son Joseph, and her son-in-law Terry Gleason.