Frances Evelyn Beutler passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 28, 2010 at the age of 97. She was born in Woodlake on September 21, 1913 to Onis Brown and Mabel Lewis Brown. Frances was a lifelong resident of the Three Rivers-Woodlake area graduating from Woodlake High School.
She met her husband, Willis, through her aunt Margie who was married to one of his brothers. They married April 15, 1934 in Three Rivers at her father’s home on Red Hill. They were married for 58 years before his passing in 1993. After their marriage, they moved to Colton, CA. where Willis was employed with Safeway Stores. It was here that their three children, Celesta, Garry, and Larry were born.
In 1947 the family returned to Three Rivers when they became part owners of the Three Rivers Market. She became active in the community involving herself with the Women’s club, Lady Lion’s, & PTA. She taught sewing in 4-H. She and Willis also were founding members of the group that began the original ambulance service. They were active members of the Community Presbyterian Church.
She was an excellent seamstress. There was not anything she could not make or repair. Frances sewed all her own clothing as well as her children’s. When her grandchildren began arriving she made them clothes. She was also called upon by many to make clothing for them. She upholstered and reupholstered her own furniture. She also enjoyed working in her yard, crocheting, & playing bingo.
After Willis retired they moved to Woodlake, where they lived for 30 years, and became active members of the Woodlake Presbyterian Church. They enjoyed their travels, going to Mexico, Hawaii & Canada. They traveled in their little Chinook, camping with family and often, just with their grandchildren.
Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Willis, daughter Celesta, & brother’s Lewis and Bill Brown. She is survived by sons Garry and wife Jan of Porterville, Larry and wife Diana of Sonora, nine grandchildren; twenty two great grandchildren and 11 great great grandchildren. In addition, she leaves her sister-in-law Virginia Brown of Visalia and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Sunday, December 5, 2010, 2p.m. to 5 p.m. at Miller’s Memorial Chapel in Visalia. Services will be at Community Presbyterian Church in Three Rivers on Monday, December 6, at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at the Three Rivers Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local food bank or any charity of your choosing.
Condolences may be offered at www.millerchapel.com
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