Frances L Walker

  Frances (“Fran”) Louise Walker passed away on September 3, 2016, at Valley Eldercare in Grand Forks, ND. She is enormously missed by her husband of 64 years, James G. Walker, and is affectionately remembered by all for her intelligent, high-spirited and thoughtful nature. Her children, James H. Walker (Anne), Katherine W. Laramie (Russ), and Richard N. Walker (Jamie) remember her as both a caring mother and an exceptional role model. Born February 20, 1927, in Indianapolis to Cleon A. Nafe and Eunice Katherine (nee Shouse of Lexington KY), Fran attended Bryn Mawr College, graduating in 1948 with a degree in physics. She then worked at Bell Labs on the first transistor until moving to San Francisco, where she met her husband, James. They started a family, with the birth of their eldest, Jim, and middle-son Robert. In 1957 they moved to Pittsburgh, where Katherine and Richard were born and they helped found the local racquet club. Fran encouraged her children's participation in sports and hobbies and emphasized education. She became a successful self-taught stock investor and was also an avid puzzle-solver, especially crosswords. Late in life Fran and Jim moved back to California and then to Grand Forks, to be near son Jim. They enjoyed a long retirement together and were true, supportive companions to each other through old age. Fran's children remember her singing taps as a lullaby when they were growing up and have passed that tradition down to their children. Fran also leaves behind seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren who will miss her. Her disabled son Robert passed away in 1968.  Memorial to be held at 1st Presbyterian Church in Grand Forks, ND on Saturday, September 24, at 6PM.  Doors open at 5:30PM.