Frances "Fran" C. Thurkettle's Obituary
Frances “Fran” C. Thurkettle, age 86, of Norton Shores passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, January 6, 2010. She was born September 25, 1923, in Ludington, MI, to Kleber and Blanche (Gensen) Hill and was a 1941 graduate of Ludington High School.
Frances was married to Frank Newlin on July 26, 1942, in Ludington. Their son, Michael, was born on August 30, 1943. Frank was killed in action on January 15, 1945, while serving his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. Frances was married to Erwin L.D. “Turk” Thurkettle on April 5, 1947, in Ludington, and he preceded her in death on May 2, 2007, after celebrating 60 years of marriage.
Fran had been employed as a bus driver for 30 years for Grand Haven Area Public Schools. She was a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and she enjoyed traveling. She had a special appreciation for music, good books, and her beloved Lake Michigan. Fran’s infectious smile and charming laughter endeared her to young and old alike. She left us with a wonderful legacy of beautiful music, good books, fine wine, and respect and appreciation for all of God’s creatures. She loved us with all of her heart, as we loved her. Fran and Turk spent 60 wonderful years in their home on their beloved Black Lake. It was their utopia and their heart.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Wilda James of Grand Haven; her son, Michael (Laurie) Thurkettle of Huntington Beach, CA; four grandchildren: Barbara (Tim) Moran, Jed Thurkettle, Nicholas Thurkettle, and Margaret Thurkettle; two great-grandchildren: Jessica and Joseph Moran; several nieces and nephews; and a special great-aunt, Bertha Thurkettle. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters: Leona Petersen and Lois Conn; a brother, Harold Hill; and her son-in-law, Ken James on September 28, 2001.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment will be in Lake Forest Cemetery. Memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.vbkfuneralhome.com.
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