Fran passed away on February 1st, 2024 after struggling from the effects of Dementia and Alzheimer’s for some time.
Fran was born in Coleman, Alberta on August 22, 1940 to Evelyn Baardseth (Mitchell) and George Derbyshire. She was predeceased by her son, David Derbyshire; granddaughter, Kelsey Trefiak; and son in law, Wesley Trefiak. She is survived by her husband of over 30 years, Jake Matthiesen; sons, Michael (Deanna) Derbyshire and Jeff (Sandy) Matthiesen; and daughters, Michele Derbyshire and Crystel Trefiak.
She loved her grandchildren to the end with all her heart, Linda-Lee (Kevin), Ryan (Bree), Justin, Scott, Christopher, Thomas, Nicole, Brent, Steven and Savannah. She recently was blessed with two great grandchildren, Braxton and Kira to go along with Abigail.
Fran grew up in Coleman and Coronation Alberta. She met Roman Tkachuk while in the RCAF, was married in 1959, and had three children before her 22nd birthday. After divorcing in 1969, and raising her children alone to the best of her ability, she met Jake Matthiesen in 1977. They have been together ever since and he was with her at the end.
Fran had a zest for life. While not much of an athlete herself, she reveled in her families’ activities and exploits whether they were skiing, waterskiing, camping, or chopping wood for amazing campfires. Jake and Fran spent numerous winters in Yuma where they made wonderful friends. They spent summers at North Buck Lake where they were often joined by family and even more friends.
Fran had a huge heart and made everyone she met feel like family. She will be sincerely missed by everyone who knew her. We will forever keep a spot open for her at the dinner table – like she did so many times for so many others…
In keeping faithful to her wishes, cremation will be taking place and Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
“This too shall pass…”
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