Frances N. Mendez “Fran”, age 89 of Alto, passed away Monday, October 23, 2017. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Mendez; son Patrick Mendez; and grandson Harley Buche. She is survived by her children Daniel (Judy) Mendez, Mary (Bob) Bristol, Thomas (Katie) Mendez, Robert Mendez, Melisa (Rodd) Sickelsteel; brother Daniel (Jeanette) Dungan; sisters Dorothy Anderson, Sheila (George) Richmond; grandchildren Madelen Mendez, Meghan (Joe) Proulx, Patrick Mendez, Samantha Mendez, David Buche, Gary Buche, John (Collette) Mendez, Bill (Katie) Mendez, Joe (Abby) Mendez, Mary Mendez, Kyle Sickelsteel; 8 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Fran was a loving mother, teacher and neighbor, who lived her life in a way that left everyone she touched better for having met her. She worked as a gym teacher at Alto Elementary, a mail carrier, and was also a community volunteer. Fran was an artist and woodcarver. Fran was raised as a Quaker, and then became a long-time member of Alto United Methodist Church. Visitation will be Wednesday, October 25, 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at Roth-Gerst Chapel, 305 N. Hudson, Lowell. Funeral service will be Thursday, October 26, 11:00 a.m. at Roth-Gerst Chapel. Rev. Robert Wright officiating. Interment Merrimen Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Autism Support of Kent County, Inc., PO Box 150348, Grand Rapids, MI 49515.
