Frances Elizabeth Gwinner

Fran was born on January 10, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York, to Olaf Tollefsen, who immigrated from Norway, and Frances Tollefsen. She grew up in a Lutheran household in Rowland, Pennsylvania, with her older brother, Olaf, who became a professor of philosophy at Saint Anselm College. She graduated from Wallenpaupack Area High School in Hawley, Pennsylvania, then moved to New Jersey to begin her career, where she met her future husband.

On November 13, 1965, she married Robert Eugene Gwinner of Sulphur Springs, Ohio, a warrant officer in the U.S. Army. For 56 years she was a devoted Army wife, supporting Robert throughout his military career, including many years of service in Heidelberg, West Germany. After his retirement, they made their home in Georgia, living in several cities across the state. Robert preceded her in death on March 8, 2022.

Small in stature but never in spirit, Fran was spicy, sharp-witted, and unforgettable. She loved traveling, baking for the people she loved, and tending her garden. Nothing brought her more joy than showering her grandchildren with love. She will be remembered especially for her love of Christmas.

She is survived by her only child, Aaron Robert Gwinner, and his wife, Deborah Pinter-Gwinner; her beloved grandchildren, Alexander Robert Gwinner and Ava Elizabeth Gwinner; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, Olaf and Frances Tollefsen, and her brother, Olaf Tollefsen.

At Fran's request, no service will be held. The family will celebrate her life privately.