Frances Rae Carlson

Frances Rae MacGowan was born in Great Falls, Montana, on January 16, 1926 to an English-German mother and an Irish Father. She was the second of six siblings. She attended St. Mary’s grade school and high school in Great Falls. At the age of 16 she met the love of her life, Carl Edward Carlson, while working as a car hop at a local drive-in. As education was her top priority, it would be another five years before they married.

As a lover of art Frances was the first woman to graduate from the School of Engineering (Architecture) at Montana State University in Bozeman. This background prepared her for her true calling in life — teaching math and science. Her skill in architecture was useful as she designed two lake cabins for her family.

She and Carl lived briefly in Alaska, where they welcomed their first daughter, Cheryl. After two years they moved back to Great Falls just before the birth of their second daughter Christine. Frances again attended college receiving a degree in Education from the College of Great Falls and began her teaching career at Great Falls Central Catholic High School.

In 1969, the Carlson family moved to Kirkland, Washington. Soon thereafter Frances began what would become a 30-plus year career teaching middle school math and science at Holy Family Parish School. During her tenure, she never lost her passion for teaching and remained dedicated to her students, ensuring that they learned what she was teaching — even when they didn’t want to learn it. For this, Frances gained a reputation of being a bit of a hardliner, a title that, in many ways, gave her meaning and satisfaction, as it reflected her devotion to education and her students.

Frances was deeply committed to her family, faith, and community. She was a devoted and involved parishioner at Holy Family for over 40 years. She inspired others with her commitment to service, dedication to her faith, and deep sense of community. She cared deeply for her six beautiful granddaughters, who love and admire their grandmother immeasurably! Frances often remarked at how her family was her highest blessing and gift from God.

In 2002, Frances lost Carl, the love of her life, after 54 years of marriage. As deeply as her family will miss her, they have faith that she is once again with her beloved Carl and that both are happily together, rejoicing in their love and watching over the family they so deeply treasured.

“Memorial gifts can be sent to Holy Family Parish School for the Frances Carlson Math & Science Memorial Fund.

Please make checks payable to Holy Family Parish School, 7300 120th Avenue NE, Kirkland, WA, Attn: Development Office. Please note Frances Carlson Memorial Fund on the memo line of your check.”