Hello and thank you all as we pay tribute to our dear Frances Pierritz. After I share a few words about how Frances impacted my life, we welcome anyone who feels comfortable to come to the podium and share their thoughts about this wonderful woman. No matter our beliefs, backgrounds, or where we may live...everyone in this room is here to reflect and remember how Frances’ love and compassion made our lives better.

 

As most of you know, my name is Yusef Garcia, son of Lydia (or DeeDee), and grandson of Manuel and Vira. It never occurred to me that I would be standing here, in front of all of you, talking about my dear Aunt and second mother, Frances. I am both honored and humbled to help pay tribute to a truly selfless, dedicated, and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, Godmother, and friend.

 

At 4’9”, she was a quiet powerhouse. Frances had the ability to inspire so much hope within me and within the lives of everyone she touched. I think of Frances as much loving as she was forgiving. As much forceful as she was willing to fulfil the wishes of others. Without any judgment, she gave her all - to her family, friends, and her faith.

It would be presumptuous for me to know what Fran would say to get us all through the grief we are feeling right now. What I feel though is that she is here now, smiling and thankful for this tribute and thankful for your love. I believe she appreciates the consideration of her husband, sons, and immediate family. And, everyone for taking the time to visit with her one last time.  

 

As I am sure all of you can attest, Frances was a tremendous person to have in your life and in your corner. Not because she would tell you what you wanted to hear, but because she would DO exactly what was needed to get you through your struggles. Fran was a fearless and loyal DOER. Fran was soft spoken, some would say shy, but when it came to action, Frances never hesitated and was the first to lead.

It’s hard to put into a few words how Fran helped me – and so many other people – become who we are today.

 

From a young boy, I was marveled at how Fran always knew what to do... who to call, how to go about making “it” happen. Many of you knew this, but Anthony and I enjoyed a short career as child speed skaters. Competing in many tournaments, traveling around the Chicago region, and bringing home countless trophies and medals. Fran ALWAYS knew how to get where we were going, how to get there, where to eat, when to arrive at each roller rink, and made sure our spandex uniforms were ready to go! Fran refused to let anyone or anything get in the way of us getting to our next meet. She inspired so much confidence - a confidence that I see now, stayed with me.

When I was 10 years old, my mother packed us up and we moved to Upstate New York. During my college years, one requirement was to complete a four month cooking internship. I immediately knew I wanted to do my internship in Chicago. I asked Fran and Ed if I could stay with them in Tinley Park, while I worked in a downtown Chicago restaurant. They said yes immediately. This, I am realizing was the most profound gift Fran ever gave me. While I was in Chicago with my closest friend and big cousin Anthony, I learned so much - not only how to cook in a professional kitchen, but also what it meant to be independent. Fran gave me the gift of development. While in Tinley, she stepped back, nurtured my development, and let Anthony and I do whatever the hell we wanted. This gift had a profound impact on me and sparked my thirst for life and curiosity.

 

I choose to share this with you because for me, it exemplifies Fran’s selflessness, her support and sacrifice - Fran knew, I needed to experience LIFE and she let me. Fran always supported everything I did, even if I could tell she didn’t know what I was talking about, she supported it because she knew it was important to me. For that I will always be grateful.

 

If I could say one last thing to Fran, it would be thank you. Thank you for your selflessness, compassion, and dedication.

 

So many things will continue to remind me of Fran long after today. Every time I see Betty Boop, read a story about Texas or Tinley Park, or Saturn cars - her smile and beauty will be conjured. I will remember growing up surrounded by her love and protection.

 

I am thankful to have experienced firsthand her love and kindness before she passed. I am also glad that she was able to see how her support helped make me into a happy man. She did her part to make me who I am today - I am forever grateful.

 

Let Frances Pierritz serve as an inspiration to all of us. She was a soldier, a survivor, who beat all the odds. Throughout it all, Fran never stopped loving her family and helping others before helping herself. Let her spirit and love continue to guide our lives. 

Thank you. Again, we welcome other family members to share their thoughts, reflections, and memories of our Frances.