Frances "Fran" I. (Herald) Case

         Frances “Fran” I. Case, a loving and devoted wife, mother grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend passed away from respiratory complications on Saturday evening, June 17, 2023 at the Munising Memorial Hospital at the age of 87.  Born on May 13, 1936 in Lansing, Michigan, daughter of the late Louis and Ireta (Kane) Herald, Fran grew up in Westphalia where she proudly graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1954. With valor and patriotism, she served her country as a member of the Women’s Army Corps from 1954 until 1956.

         It was there at a ball tournament where she met the love of her life, Robert Case.  They were married on September 20, 1956 and together lovingly raised their five children.  Her family continued to grow as she became the proud grandmother, great grandmother, and “adopted” family member of Billy Ramsey, Dana Boyak, and their children Morgan and Denny as their Nanny Franny.

            With a heart full of love and spirit of camaraderie, Fran was an active participant in the community.  She took the stage in the Little Theater where she delighted audiences and fellow actors in numerous productions, and she served Sacred Heart Church with her melodious voice as a cantor, lector, and member of the choir.  Fran was a self-taught piano player whose passion for music lead her to become a piano teacher to many young and not so young folks alike over the years.  When Fran wasn’t busy being the life of the party, she enjoyed playing cards with her friends and family.  While competitive, she kept the atmosphere light and entertaining during endless games of pinochle, poker, and bridge. 

           As we say goodbye to Fran, we remember her as the loving matriarch, hilarious friend, talented performer, and devoted Democrat.  Her warmth and kindness illuminated the lives of all who knew and loved her.  Her life was a testament to her loving, friendly, and thoughtful nature.

            She is survived by her loving husband of sixty-six years – Robert “Bob” Case of Munising; their five children – Mary Jo McCloy of Minneapolis, MN, Robert (Leanna) Case of Dimondale, MI, Joseph (Karen) Case of Munising, Ann Marie (Isaiah) Jones of Rushmere, VA, and Daniel (Susan Roberts) Case of Munising; fourteen grandchildren; beaucoup great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; sisters Rosie Howard of DeWitt, MI and Anita Heppard of Matherton, MI; brothers-in-law Pat Klein and Dewey Howard; and the beloved Ramsey family – Billy, Dana, Morgan, and Denny.  Fran was preceded in death by her parents, son-in-law Fred McCloy, siblings Kay Klein, Bud Herald, and Joe Herald, and brother-in-law Earl Heppard.  

            Services for Fran will be held on Friday, June 23, 2023.  Fran’s Memorial Mass will take place at 12:00 noon at Sacred Heart Church with Father Michael Ocran officiating.  Military honors will be rendered following the Mass (approximately 1:15 p.m.) at the Alger County Veterans Memorial (306 Veterans Drive, Munising) by the American Legion and Vietnam Veterans Honor Guard.  A fellowship luncheon will take place back at the church.

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