Frances Van Gelder

Frances Van Gelder passed away peacefully on Monday, July 22, 2024, at the age of 97. She enjoyed life as much as anyone….from playing poker for many years to going to the greyhound races and later, being a devoted viewer of the Game Show Network! Family and friends were the most important parts of her life. She loved it when, in her later years, she was visited by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Frances was a survivor of World War II. She moved out of London at age 13 just before “The Blitz”. She was sent to the UK West Country along with her father, mother and sister. During the war, she met the love of her life, Mark. When the war was over, they married in 1947. One year later ,she gave birth to son Gary….on her birthday no less! Marsha came along four years later. Seventy-one years later, Mark passed away. Frances would say that he spoke to her frequently after that. It was difficult to let go. Perhaps they will meet again… Frances worked in the medical field for three decades. After that she became the building manager for Hermann Estates (which is now the UT Physicians Building). After retiring, for nearly five years, she volunteered at St. Lukes Hospital Day Surgery, greeting and informing patients’ families. Frances suffered from Parkinson’s disease for over 20 years. She fought it so valiantly….never giving up. If you wish to send a donation in her name, please send it to Parkinson’s Foundation, www.parkinson.org/. Frances is survived by son, Gary Van Gelder (Rosanne); daughter, Marsha Laviage (Charlie Rowe); grandchildren, Randy Van Gelder (Amy), Kelly Van Gelder (Lex), Melissa Laviage, Jennifer Laviage; great-grandchildren, Tristan Van Gelder, Naomi Van Gelder, and Oliver Muhl; sister, Anita Samson; niece, Laura Rosenfield (Mark); and nephew, Dan Samson (Stacy). Great thanks and participation medals (!) to Frances’ caregivers, Rosemary Ndichu, Antoinette Nibbs, and Cynthia Proctor. Frances believed that every star in the sky was a remembrance of someone who had passed away. We hope she finds her star. A private family funeral service will be held at Beth Israel Memorial Garden.

Frances Van Gelder

May 26, 1927 - July 22, 2024