ALBANY – On March 30, 2013, after 85 years of love, happiness & service to family, Frances joined her adoring husband in heaven. Her generous playful spirit, adventure for life, love for friends & family will always be remembered with joy.
After complications from a broken hip, Frances was cared for by her daughters & loving friend Nanci Bogovich. She fought with courage & showed immense grace & strength throughout the last month, never giving up hope for a full recovery.
Frances was a devoted member of St. Margaret Mary’s (All Saints) Church, President of the Czechoslovakian Society of America Lodge 429, an Avon Lady for over 40 years & worked for the NYS Dept. of Taxation & Finance & NYS Dept. of Labor. For 35 years she co-owned and operated Bernier’s Photo Studio with her husband. Her passion in life was cooking and entertaining in her home. She loved to play Bingo and travel – recently visiting Italy, Austria, Prague & Martha’s Vineyard.
She was predeceased by her true love, Carl Barney; her parents, John & Frances Valek & her brothers – Amil, Joseph, Frank & Jerald.
Frances is survived by her daughters Blanche (Bob) Branton, Christine (Bob) Brown & Terry (Paul) Conway; her grandchildren – Shawn & Christopher Elms & Aaron, Joel & David Feldman; 4 great grandchildren, nieces & nephews. She was loved by everyone who knew her & was an adopted “Mother” to many.
Funeral services will be held at Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, Friday morning at 8:15 a.m., & 9:00 a.m. at All Saints Church, Homestead St., Albany. Family & friends are invited to visit at the funeral home Thursday from 4-8 p.m. Interment will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Equinox or Hospice. To leave a message of condolence for the family, send a sympathy card, or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Click here to view Frances’ resting place in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie, New York.
Suzanne Canell
I’m so very sad to hear of the passing of Frances. She was clearly a “one of a kind”. From the first meeting with Frances I felt I had known her all of my life. She welcomed me into her heart and arms.
I will miss her smile, her laughter, and her wisdom. I will always remember her with a smile when I pass a “Sushi” restaurant….
She’ll be missed by all who were privileged to know her….
Suzanne Canell
Terry Conway
Just got home from the wake. I am overjoyed at all the people who were so kind to come out and express their love for my mother & show their support for me & my sisters. It was truly beautiful.Thank you all. Terry
Marcia (Vybiral) & Jim Finkle
What a lovely video of a lovely lady. I remember her when I was growing up back in New York. I was the youngest of the Vybiral family. She would come over to our home and also at the CSA dances/dinners. My sister Julia told me of her passing which I was so sorry to hear. At least she is in a better place. I am sure all of you will remember all the good times you shared with her.
Our Deepest Sympathy,
Marcia & Jim Finkle
Denise Cavanaugh
Dear Terry and family,
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Aunt Frances. I have enjoyed attending Grace’s family events with all of you, and was always pleased to see Frances’ grace and beauty! Many prayers for you and your family in this difficult time.
Love,
Denise (Grace’s best friend)