Name: Tobias Funeral Home - Beavercreek Chapel
Address: Dayton, OH

Those who lacked the ability to pay for food and roamed the streets knew that if they were truly hungry, they could come after dinner and be grateful to get a meal from Frances (our mom) of the same food that was offered to us for our dinner.  There were often some leftovers, but if there was a hungry person at our door, (or even a stray hungry dog) mom was sure to offer food and her loving care.  She was a woman with a heart of gold!  Not only was she a wonderful, loving mother with many artful talents, and routinely volunteered at our parish church, but all who got to know her, loved her. She had many wonderful friends and even brought some of them to the Lord through her loving companionship.  I am quite sure that she is now in heaven with our dad and others who helped those in need. How blessed we were to be the children of John & Frances.

We were Land O Lakes neighbors of Frances (and Julia ), and have good memories of her and her family.  We truly enjoyed the years that we have known her and the greater Paalman family. She was a true gem .

I was one of the youngest nieces of Aunt Frances. My mom, Theresa, was the youngest sister to John. I loved visiting with John and Frances in Land O Lakes. They were so warm and welcoming. Although distance interfered with visiting often, it was a special time in our summer travels to visit them. I will never forget her warm, neverending smile and loving heart.  All my love and prayers.

Our Aunt Frances was  a wonderful woman with a beautiful, gentle soul. When I was a child, it wasn't often that our family saw them, because they resided in Ohio, but we loved them still, and a visit by them was a special treat.  My mother, Theresa, was John's youngest sister; she passed almost eight years ago.  In more recent years Beth and I were blessed to spend some time with Frances at her home in Land O Lakes. She was incredibly active with her flowers and her home.  It was always a joy to visit her and simply be in her company.  R.I.P. Aunt Frances,  GBNF.

Frances J. Van Thiel
Celebration of Life
By Jane Trame

       We are here today to celebrate the long and wonderful life of Frances Jacoba Van Thiel, our mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother and friend to all, who touched all of our lives in special ways.  Her maiden name was Paalman, with two a’s.  Her father and mother, born in Holland, met on a steamship going to America.  They married, settled in Kimberly, Wisconsin, a paper mill community, where Mom was born, along with her 6 brothers and 1 sister.  Mom had a very humble upbringing.  While she was in her late teens she joined her brothers in their band.  She played the accordion and sang beautifully.  Also in this band was a gentleman by the name of John Van Thiel who played the guitar and violin.  Frances and John became close friends.  Soon they teamed up together as Frankie & Johnny, played and sang country western songs on a local radio station and for special gatherings.  They married and started a family while living in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, where Dad had a radio and electrical shop.  World War II was going on about this time and Dad wanted to do something to help the war effort since he could not join because of having an artificial leg.    Mom wrote a letter to the president of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt, stating and listing credentials that showed that Dad was very qualified in radio and electronics and wanted to help the war effort.  Mom was his biggest supporter. Imagine her surprise when a letter came from the president assigning Dad to Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio.  So, Dad left Wisconsin and traveled to Ohio to start his new job and find a place to live for his family.  Soon, he sent for Mom, Ruby and me to join him. 

Mom & Dad were always involved in church activities.  Our Catholic religion was very important to both of them and Mom positively ingrained the love of church, prayer and community in all of us children.   Mom & Dad continued to sing and play

I remember going to see Grandma and Grandpa every third summer growing up. Grandma was a warm and kind lady. She made everything special when we visited her. I remember as a young kid, Grandma would take me on walks through the forest and up and down all the dirt roads around her house. She would point out all the animals as she saw them, and I even remember seeing her feed a few deer right out of her hand. Grandma was always so kind to all the critters.  During the Fall Grandma would buy bags of grains for the animals to help them through the long winter.  During one visit, I remember Grandma cooking and cleaning some fish we had caught on the lake, earlier in the day.  This was probably the first time I ever saw fish get cleaned and prepped for cooking, it was interesting to watch her go to work on them. I will miss Grandma but I will always have my memories.    


Wow!  Where to begin.  Going over all the wonderful memories I have of  visiting Grandma and Grandpa in Wisconsin, what wonderful times we had.  I always loved how excited Grandma would get to take us fishing off the dock or walking in the woods. How she loved the north woods!  I have always been struck by how proud Grandma was of me being Grandpa's name sake.  It fills my heart with such joy to know that I am following in his great footsteps.  Grandma had a way about her that was always encouraging and loving to all.  She would always make me feel so special when she would say to me "Real good John.".  What a special phrase that is to me.  It always meant that she loved me and was very so proud.
     Last year, before the plague, I had an opportunity to visit with Grandma for a short time.  To my surprise, she was just singing away and as happy as could be.  What a wonderful image she has left for me.  I believe she is still like she was,  happy and singing with the lord.  I will miss her greatly, and I am looking forward to seeing her again heaven.



What I will remember most about my grandmother, Frances VanThiel, is how she innately made everyone feel special. Every birthday card I ever received from grandma, she always referred to me as her little angel. An undeserved title I assure you. Suffice to say, anyone that knew grandma has their own story of feeling loved by her.

When I would visit grandma, most days were spent around the kitchen table playing cards. Grandma loved playing cards and she loved “helping” out her grandchildren with their next calculated move in the game. She would gently lean in to look at the hand I held and point out the appropriate card to lie down. 

I remember walking outside with grandma to help feed the deer and the squirrels. The brown squirrels that is… certainly not those awful black squirrels. The red squirrels, she would explain, would try to knock off the brown squirrel population and steal their food. One year she even had Uncle Chuck sit outside with a rifle just waiting for those destructive little buggers. Way to go Uncle Chuck, your success must have been because you ate your daily dose of walnuts!

Walking down the driveway with grandma one morning we heard the Pileated Woodpecker. It seemed to give grandma such delight to show me this beautiful little creature and to share her wealth of knowledge.  Of course this particular woodpecker had caused quite a bit of damage to a telephone pole… but that is another story. 

What can I say about my grandma, but that she will be dearly missed because her love made such an impact on not just friends and family, but by all who knew her. Rest in peace grandma. 


Memories of my Grandma,
	Growing up, our yearly visits to Land O’ Lakes, Wisconsin to visit my Grandparents, were some of the fondest vacation memories I have.
	Every morning I would walk out to the kitchen and my Grandma would be there with a big grin on her face and sing, “Here she is, Miss America…”.  It always put a huge smile on my face.  What better way to start your morning!  I still remember all our daily nature hikes, berry picking walks and “trips” to the mailbox. I think she knew every flower, bird and animal track we would cross. Grandma was always singing or humming a song or hymn.  She had a beautiful voice and I loved listening.  As I grew older, this never changed.  Even now I would still find her humming or quietly singing a hymn.
	We were blessed to spend more time with Grandma these past 10 years; she lived here in Beavercreek with my mom.  I am even more grateful that my two children Justin and Ashley, were so close to their Great-Grandma.  She was able to be such an important part of their lives.
	Grandma was such a calming, gentle, prayerful soul to me. I miss her dearly.  This year was like no other, and more than anything I wish we could have the time back that we missed with her!
	I Love You Grandma!
	Deanne Rose


Grandma Van Thiel could really light up a room. We never saw her without a smile and never left without at least 10 compliments from her. Tyler and I are so thankful she was able to meet her first great great grandson before she passed. She will be dearly missed! 

Heaven gained another angel. Grandma VanThiel was truly a very special person. Her cheery  disposition and sunny smile would brighten your mood immediately. I have fond memories of visiting her in Land O’ Lakes at Christmas time. We enjoyed this special one on one time with her. Although, she will be dearly missed, we know she’s happy to be sitting next to Grandpa once again.  Love you, Grandma

Great grandma always had the biggest smile on her face. Every time she was near the family she was so happy and filled with life. I will always remember her wearing her 100 birthday crown on her head filled with laughter and happiness. Great grandma loved playing the piano or her keyboard, was very artistic and faith filled. She will always live on in our hearts.
Love,
Alex

Great Grandma lived an extraordinary life with a continuous smile that lit up every room. Her devotion to faith, family, and her many artistic passions is truly inspiring. She will forever live on in the beauty of nature, depicted in her works of art, music, and our cherished belief in Christ. She will be missed.
Love,
Mallory

Grandma ~ My Guardian Angel

I was so fortunate to have a Grandmother like Frances Van Thiel.  She was always so positive, happy and genuinely cared about how you were doing.  

When we were with her, it was all about us.  Through the years I came to see god in her, all the time.  I always felt like she was guiding me and watching over me as my guardian Angel.  

Grandma lived an amazing life and I’m eternally grateful for every minute I had with her as well as my family (Doug, Jared and Carter).  

Grandma you will be missed.  We love you always and forever! 

Grandma

Michelle Verboon

I've seen your love,
when you hugged and kissed my children. 

I've seen your strength, 
when you cared for grandpa in his last years.

I've seen your creativity,
when I look at your paintings and drawings.

I've seen your playful side, 
when you played games and joked with the family.

I've seen your devotion to faith,
when you prayed and sang in the church.

I've seen your compassion,
when you cared for animals up north.

We love you deeply, 
and we will miss your presence with us every day. 



Memories of Grandma
Jeanette Burch

      Grandma radiated warmth and love in everything she did. I was always so excited when we arrived at Grandma and Grandpa’s house for a visit.  I would watch their garage door open as our car approached knowing Grandma and Grandpa would be rushing out with huge smiles. I loved how Grandma would welcome me with her all-encompassing hug. 
      I have wonderful memories of Grandma and going on walks and adventures. She would always find deer tracks, blue berries and raspberries on the way. Grandma was just as excited as I was with the fish, berries or flowers I brought back to her house. 
      Growing up, Grandma would frequently go out of her way to motivate and uplift me. She would pull me aside just to give a few words of encouragement. 
      Grandma has given me so many memories that my heart will hold forever.     


Mom (and I always called you Mom); I have known you for over fifty years, thanks to Ruby.  For most of this time you and John lived in far northern Wisconsin.  The first trip to Wisconsin was the summer Ruby and I were married.  It was to introduce me to Ruby’s and Ruby to my family and friends who could not attend our wedding.  The next two years Ruby and I spent our vacation at Landing Lake helping build your new home.  For the next 27 years we generally spent our vacations in Wisconsin.  Of course I always hauled a boat & motor up there for trips to other lakes.  When I retired in 2000, and after John passed, we generally went up there twice a year.  When you moved down to Ohio for the winters, our trips to Wisconsin ultimately expanded to three times a year.  April/May to take you back up, then over July 4th (for the good fishing) and the end of September. 
    You always liked to go to garage sales.  I, many times, tagged along to see what I could find.   An old boat, a trailer and several motors which saved me from hauling my Ohio equipment up there.  Another item I found was a nice 6 quart stainless steel pot, without handles, for 50 cents.  Perfect for frying fish.   You said I needed the lid and she paid a dollar for it.  Dad’s basement provided two sturdy metal handles + bolts etc.   Every time I use it, I think of you. 
     Fish fries: We had many great Wisconsin fish fries!  At one of the garage sales I got a deluxe camp stove.  I indicated, I would cook the fish outside.  This was your job and you wanted nothing of the sort.  You finally relented and I took everything outside.  The next time I again said I would cook outside. We went around this time for just a minute or so.   The third fish fry, I said I would again cook it outside.  You indicated: “Go for it”.
     Many times I use the expression “Thinking of You” when friends have problems. Ruby once said; Why don’t you just say; “Pray for you”?  I haven’t really changed.  He knows what I mean.  


I was a nurse that took care of Fran at Brookdale Beavercreek. She was such a loving and special person. She would ask me to 
Scratch her back and then would say what glorious fingers you have. She would always tell you how beautiful you where and had a positive attitude. I loved when entertainment came in and she would sing with them. And it was so wonderful to see her daughter Ruby come every day and spend time with her mom. She will truly be missed by so many people. God has gain a new angel. My deepest condolences for the family and you will be in my thoughts and prayers. 


Our sincere sympathy in the loss of a kind and wonderful, fun-filled person. We know mere words will never replace Aunt Frances...but memories live on, and, they will always be part of each of you.  

Jim and I gave money to St. John's Food Pantry in her memory.

Hugs,
Jim and Rochelle (Blondie) Stoffel

My favorite memory of Grandma was growing up in Ohio when she and Grandpa lived off Spangler rd.   Several of my brothers and sisters would go to Grandmas house and play games throughout the day.  One of my favorite games involved sugar bread squares where Grandma would try and guess the number of squares that were on our plate as we covered it.  She was always a great guesser and we gladly ate the sugar, butter and bread squares.   Of course we were full of energy and ready to burn some by the time we got home from her place.   I also greatly enjoyed all of the many trips up north to Wisconsin both in summer and winter to spend time with Grandma and help out with things around the house.  She always had a great perspective and outlook on life which serves a testimony to her longevity and happiness that she shared with all us.  She will be greatly missed and cherished for the rest of my life.  

My fondest memories of Grandma Van Thiel are of going up to her home in Land O'Lakes, WI over Christmas break with the family to visit and spend time with her. She was so very kind, patient, and welcoming to all of us - sometimes 20 of us - staying for about a week, all sharing 1 bathroom. We would all play cards, Yahtzee (her favorite), put together puzzles, cook/eat, watch movies and talk. 

I remember her love of all the little birds, squirrels, chipmunks, deer, etc that she would feed. She enjoyed sitting at her kitchen table and watching them through the window. She was always humming or singing a song; and always with a joyful sparkle in her eye, an upbeat energy, and genuine smile.  She was affectionate and loving to all of us! Her positive attitude and cheerful outlook on life is something I treasure and admire. We will miss her dearly. Rest in peace sweet Grandma Van Thiel

When my husband Ves and I were at the cottage in Lake Tomahawk, we would sometimes take a ride to Land O Lakes to visit your Mom. What a joy she was and such a warm welcome whenever we stopped.  Ves loved your Mom and when he passed, I got the sweetest letter from her.  I lived in Three Lakes for a few years and one time Larry & Theresa Ann and Jerome and Jan went to visit her also.  Always  such a pleasure.  God surly blessed you with a great Mom.  I am sure she will be singing and dancing  in her eternal home.  God Bless you  and your families.

Thank you Jane for sharing your Mom with me over the years, we loved when she joined us to paint.  I was intimidated watching her create something beautiful while I was still struggling to find my voice (still am).

What a wonderful long life your Mom lived, basked in the love of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Wishing you and your family peace and wonderful memories to share with each other.

With love,  Arline & Frank

REMEMBERING MOM
Ruby
Mom was very special in so many ways. I had the unique privilege of experiencing mom in various roles. As a mother, she was caring and loving ready to offer advice or help as we needed it. She was someone we could always turn to at any time. Mom made sure that our faith and music were an important part of our lives. When we began having children, she immediately loved them as she would her own. Our children returned that love whenever she was near. You would always see the kids hanging around her and giving and receiving hugs.
Later, after a long life of independence, giving and charm, mom came to live with Chuck and I. During this time, mom and I were more like friends. Most days, after breakfast, mom would say “where are we going today”? She enjoyed browsing in stores or just going for a drive. Afterwards, we would usually go to lunch at Wendy’s or Arby’s. Mom would accompany me to outings or parties with friends. The ladies considered her just one of the girls. They often mentioned how sweet she was. At home, she always wanted to help with dinner or something. We often worked on a puzzle or played a game such as Farkle, Yahtzee or Rummy and just chatted.
As time passed, she required more help. The tables were turned and I started taking on a more motherly role. Even after she entered the nursing home, she had the same uplifting personality. Since I was visiting daily, the staff would comment how wonderful and sweet she was. One aide in particular told me that when she was down of upset because other residents were grumpy, she would go and visit mom. Mom would always make her feel special and happy. Mom was a person who could brighten their day.
Whether in Fairborn, Land O Lakes, or Beavercreek, mom had an abundance of friends and relatives who considered her a very special part of their lives. She will be missed dearly by all of us!

My Grandmother
By Robert Hoover

I remember riding in the car, from California across the U.S. to see Grandma and Grandpa in Land o’ Lakes, WI every third summer while growing up. Grandma was a warm and kind lady. She made everything special when we visited her. I remember as a young kid, Grandma would take me on walks through the forest and up and down all the dirt roads around her house. She would point out all the animals as she saw them, and I even remember seeing her feed a few deer right out of her hand. Grandma was always so kind to all the critters.  During the Fall, Grandma would buy bags of grains for the animals to help them through the long winter.  During one visit, I remember Grandma cooking and cleaning some fish we had caught on the lake, earlier in the day.  This was probably the first time I ever saw fish get cleaned and prepped for cooking, it was interesting to watch her go to work on them. And, by the way, they were delicious! I will miss Grandma but I will always have my memories of her. 


My Wonderful Grandma
by John Hoover

Wow!  Where to begin.  Going over all the wonderful memories I have of  visiting Grandma and Grandpa in Wisconsin, what wonderful times we had.  I always loved how excited Grandma would get to take us fishing off the dock or walking in the woods. How she loved the north woods!  I have always been struck by how proud Grandma was of me being Grandpa's name sake.  It fills my heart with such joy to know that I am following in his great footsteps.  Grandma had a way about her that was always encouraging and loving to all.  She would always make me feel so special when she would say to me "Real good John.".  What a special phrase that is to me.  It always meant that she loved me and was very so proud.
     Last year, before the plague, I had an opportunity to visit with Grandma for a short time.  To my surprise, she was just singing away and as happy as could be.  What a wonderful image I have left of her. I believe she is still like she was,  happy and singing with the lord.  I will miss her greatly, and I am looking forward to seeing her again heaven.


Frances had a smile that would light up the room and make you feel warm and welcomed.  No matter what the weather was outside she would look up into the sky and say the sun wasn't far away and would be peaking out soon.  Those rays of sunshine were actually the love and kindness from Frances.  We have many wonderful memories of fun shared in Land O Lakes WI.  From fishing, to hiking around Bond Falls to eating a fish lunch or just celebrating the day because we were able to be up north.  We will miss her but know that we are better people for being in her life.  Our condolences to Jane, Ruby & Chuck, Nancy & Ed and all your families. Know we are thinking of you. 

REMEMBERING MOM
Ruby Bauer

    Mom was very special in so many ways.  I had the unique privilege of experiencing mom in various roles.  As a mother, she was caring and loving ready to offer advice or help as we needed it.  She was someone we could always turn to at any time.  Mom made sure that our faith and music were an important part of our lives.  When we began having children, she immediately loved them as she would her own.  Our children returned that love whenever she was near.  You would always see the kids hanging around her and giving and receiving hugs.
      Later, after a long life of independence, giving and charm, mom came to live with Chuck and I.  During this time, mom and I were more like friends.  Most days, after breakfast, mom would say “where are we going today”?  She enjoyed browsing in stores or just going for a drive.  Afterwards, we would usually go to lunch at Wendy’s or Arby’s.  Mom would accompany me to outings or parties with friends. The ladies considered her just one of the girls.  They often mentioned how sweet she was.  At home, she always wanted to help with dinner or something.  We often worked on a puzzle or played a game such as Farkle, Yahtzee or Rummy and just chatted.
     As time passed, she required more help.  The tables were turned and I started taking on a more motherly role.  Even after she entered the nursing home, she had the same uplifting personality.  Since I was visiting daily, the staff would comment how wonderful and sweet she was. One aide in particular told me that when she was down or upset because other residents were grumpy, she would go and visit mom.  Mom would always make her feel special and happy.  Mom was a person who could brighten their day.
     Whether in Fairborn, Land O Lakes, or Beavercreek, mom had an abundance of friends and relatives who considered her a very special part of their lives. She will be missed dearly by all of us!

 



Mrs. Van Thiel  (Francis) Was a truly  beautiful woman.  She always had time for you no matter what she was doing, & she had a way of including you in it.  When we got together at Jim & Janes & she was in town, she was always there, and always with a kind word. Always interested in what you were doing, and would remember when she last saw you and what was going on in your life.  
A truly Beautiful caring Lady!  It was my pleasure to have know her. 
 My Children  & I  went to  She and Johns 50th  Wedding Anniversary in Wisconsin  for several  days, an event  we still talk about today, with wonderful memories....
She will be missed,  but never forgotten. 
with love,  Marilyn

Memories of My Mother
By Nancy Hoover, her youngest child

Frances Van Thiel was a woman of strength in many ways: A devoted mother of 4 children, the last of which (me) almost cost her life, and was told she could never bear another child.
                 
Much of our mom’s life can be summed up in that word “Family”:

F -  Faith was first in her precious family, then Friends and having Fun, 

A – Artistic in her various creations (whether making a birthday cake or painting a beautiful picture. She was an “All or nothing” gal: “ If it is worth doing, it is worth doing well!”  (I heard that a million times) 

M – Music, Music, Music – There was joy in her heart that often revealed itself her beautiful singing, humming, and playing. She had played the accordion (by ear)  and sang professionally on radio with dad.  Years later, she would use that talent on our piano and later to its replacement: our dual keyboard organ. A couple of her daughters picked up the love of playing music as well. Mother and  all her daughters sang joyfully together in harmony many a time.

I – Intellect:  Being a good student was paramount for her children. Study diligently. Speak correctly, Do your homework and get good grades! God gave you a brain for a reason – USE it.

L – Love was her most outstanding virtue. She loved most everything and everyone, especially little children, clergy, all animals and birds – all the beauty of God’s creation was hers to enjoy and she truly did. 

Y – Yes, we CAN.  When faced with a difficult or broken situation, it was generally something to be tackled not lost. She lived through the depression and when life was lemons, she made lemonade. After I got married and lived far away, I was surprised and astounded by the many adults that would just give up on a broken item or a problem. “Oh, this doesn’t work right – throw it away!  To mom, it was not trash- it was a challenge!  Even difficult people were included in that challenge.   Thanks Mom for everything.

My Great Aunt Francis was a truly magnificent lady. Everytime we came up north for vacation we would always run over to see her or ahe would come out to greet us. She would show us excitement about all the wildlife around the lake and she would play old recordings of her singing on the radio. Ms Lady you sure will be missed by many, give my momma a hug. Love you so much. 

Kathy Skrobel

Fran’s daughter, Jane, is our next door neighbor. Whenever Fran came to visit, we were invited over. She was a very special lady that always had kind words and a beautiful smile. Her laugh was contagious and she loved to make you feel like part of the family. 
And, what an artist! Every one was more beautiful than the other. 
She will be missed and thought of often. Heaven has a new angel. 
Rest in peace, Fran. 
Lyn and Jack Hart

We always described Grandma Van Thiel as a person you would see if the forest, smiling with birds landing on her shoulders.  She was the nicest person that always kept a pleasant disposition.  She holds a very special place in our hearts and always will!  She is resting peacefully with Grandpa Van Thiel now!  She will be sadly missed, but often remembered!   The pictures we attached were from Grandma's 100th birthday celebration!

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Frances J Van Thiel

28 novembre 1919 – 29 novembre 2020

Tobias Funeral Home - Beavercreek Chapel

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