Frances Victoria Christiansen

Frances "Fritzie" was born on September 5, 1924, in Fullerton, Nebraska. She was raised on the family farm by parents, Walter and Beaty Czapla along with sisters, Matilda, Rose, Lil and Elsie and brothers Clarence and Frank. She graduated from Genoa High School in 1942. Frances worked at the Glen L. Martin Bomber Plant during WWII and met her future husband, Verner "Doc" Christiansen during this time.

Frances moved to Fresno, California and married Doc on June 18, 1947. She spent her early married years as a housewife and mother of two. At the age of 40, she attended college for a food services degree, learned how to drive and became employed by Fresno Unified School District as a cafeteria account clerk. Frances was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church and was very active in the church in her younger years.

In her later years Frances loved walking around her neighborhood to visit with her wonderful neighbors. Thanks to you all for watching over her.

Mom, your sweet, generous, and fun loving nature will truly be missed.

Frances will be lovingly remembered by her sister, Lil Krzycki; brother, Clarence Czapla and his spouse Marian; brother, Frank Czapla and his spouse Carol, all of Nebraska; son, Gary Christiansen of Fresno, Ca.; daughter, Arlene McMahon and her spouse Brian; grandsons, Josh and T.J. all of Harrisburg, Pa.; and, many nieces, nephews, cousins and neighborhood friends.

Visitation will be held at Stephens & Bean Chapel on Tuesday, September 20, 2011, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

A Funeral Service in memory of Frances will be held at Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church on Wednesday, September 21, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Stephen Carlson officiating. Burial will follow at Belmont Memorial Park. A luncheon will follow at the church's social hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church, 187 North Broadway, Fresno, Ca. 93701; or Nancy Hinds Hospice, 1616 West Shaw, Ste. A-5, Fresno, Ca. 93711 or:

www.hindshospice.org/help.htm.