Frances E. Guertin, 92 of Mason City passed away peacefully surrounded by family Thursday, June 6, 2024.
A private family service will be held to honor her life.
Frances Elizabeth was born September 22, 1931 in Linden, IA, the daughter of Frank and Henrietta (Abrahams) Adams. At a young age, the family moved to Worth County where Frances graduated from Northwood High School. She met the love of her life, Richard “Obie” Guertin and on June 4, 1955 the couple was married at the Deer Creek Valley Lutheran Church in Rural Glenville, MN. Three children were born, Debbi, Kevin and Jon. Obie obtained a job with the US Government Printing Office and the family moved to Washington DC.
One of Frances’ greatest joys was being a mother. Whether it was school or sporting events, she was always on the run with the kids. In her spare time, she gave back to her community by serving as a crossing guard for countless years. Frances was a Cub Scout Den Mother through her boys’ younger years and was also active in PTA, and volunteered with the local Hospice Program.
When the family returned to Northwood in April 1985, they lived across the street from the Adams family farm. Frances enjoyed being surrounded by family and friends. In her younger years, she was on the go; whether it was dancing the night away with her sisters or enjoying an afternoon bowling. She was a longtime member of the St. James Lutheran Church in Mason City and spent countless hours creating beautiful quilts to be donated near and far to their various organizations. Her delicious apple pies were sought after by many, and her zucchini bread, fudge and other baked goods were just about as delightful. She enjoyed her time in the kitchen baking her creations just about as much as she enjoyed sharing them with others.
Frances was reserved, and one of the best listeners you would ever meet. Her patience and understanding deemed her the Family Counselor, a strong safe shoulder for anyone to share their woes. She was self sufficient and hesitant to ask for help, she could certainly figure out a way on her own. Frances had a way of lightening any mood with her witty one liners- we still aren’t sure if she realized just how funny she truly was. But, most of all, she loved her family dearly. From her beloved siblings, especially her sisters, to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her tenderness and easy going nature will be surely missed.
Surviving are her children, Debbi (Jeff) Lucas of Englewood, FL, Kevin Guertin of Bend, OR, and Jon Guertin of Mason City; beloved grandchildren, Brandon Lucas, Nicole (John) Glaros, AJ (Lauren) Lucas, Kendall and Kylie Guertin; great-grandchildren, Desmond Lucas, Cullen, Cooper and Cassidy Glaros and Sylas Lucas; sister, Delores Marsh; sister-in-law, Judie Adams; brother-in-law, Jim Helgeson; aunt, Dorothy Strong; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Preceding her in death are her husband, Obie; parents, Frank and Henrietta; siblings, Harriet (Andy) Anderson, Arlene Adams, Frank Adams, Albert Adams, Gloria Helgeson and Marilyn (George) Lagios; brother-in-law, Gordon Marsh; as well as extended family members.
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