Frances J. Harper was born on November 11, 1928, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and passed away peacefully on December 30, 2021. She was proceeded in death by parents John and Anna Fitzgerald; brothers Rodger and John; son Brian Patrick and grandson Brian Joel.
Her grandparents were the first generation from Germany. Since she wore booties all the time, her nickname was Boots which became “Butz” with the German accent and that stuck as a family nickname her entire life. She graduated from Little Flower Catholic High School in 1946 and worked at Sears until she eventually became a stay-at-home mom to raise her six children.
Her family moved to Minnesota in 1963 where she remained the rest of her life. Those that knew her know she never lost her Philadelphia accent. Her family became known as the “B-hive” with all their names, including the pets starting with a B. She led a fabulous life and loved to travel the world with her husband. She had an amazing love for animals that she passed along to her children and grandchildren. Her favorite place to visit in any city where she traveled was the zoo.
She worked at Wendy’s in Maple Grove for over 20 years later in life and formed many friendships including “the kids” who worked there and many of her customers. She was quite a character and the stories she told (or made up) were funny and memorable. She loved going to the movies every week and was proud of the connection she had with Mickey Mouse because they were both born in 1928! She had a great laugh and an even better smile. She will be missed by everyone that knew her. She especially loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with all her heart.
She is survived by her remaining five children: Bill (Karen), Bob (Susan), Barb (Dennis), Bev and Beth; ten grandchildren Maria (Ryan), Christie, Sarah, Derek (Emily), Tony (Christin), Spencer (Rose), Brianna (Ian), Alexa (Matt), Crystal, and Emma; along with 11 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at 3:30 pm at Gearhart Anoka Funeral Home (552 East River Road Anoka, MN) with visitation starting at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Animal Human Society or another animal rescue site of your choice in her honor.
www.GearhartAnokaChapel.com