Frances "Fran” (Williams) Frigetto

Born June 6,1935 in Montrose, Co, and passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loved ones on June 24, 2024. She is preceded in death by parents Frank Willams and Angelina DeJulio Williams, sister Marie Warner, and brother Frank Jr. along with her loving husband of 51 years, Pete Frigetto and recent husband of 6 years, Paul Redig. Fran is survived by her daughter Pam (Rick) Rampi of Lakewood, son Frank (Tracy) Frigetto of Grand Junction, and daughter Reenie (Bruce) Veatch of Fruita. She is also survived by her ten grandchildren; Ava (Jorge) Aquirre, Pete (Kim) Frigetto, Rachel Zlomke, Rebecca (Troy) Thye, Patrick (Kendra) Rampi, Trae Frigetto, Michael Rampi, Jenna Rampi (Brad Parsons), Kylan (Halee) Frigetto, and Kason Frigetto; along with 12 precious great-grandchildren: Joseph, Jason, Katelyn, Jordan, Victoria, Colton, Mila, Ryan, Rylee, Sophia, Harper, and Raegan. Survivors also include Dawn Girard, Ed and Richard Warner of Grand Junction and several family members in Montrose. Fran was a planner, so much so, that she wrote her own obituary, with a few modifications.

“Growing up in Montrose, my dad was a sheepman and I loved being with my dad. I would go along with him often to bring supplies to the sheep-camps where his sheepherders were. He passed away in 1977, my hero and I miss him so much. He had a deep faith in God. In 1964, my mother, Angelina, died. I still miss her and her warm hugs so much. I always heard about what a caring and nice person she was. She was a perfectionist, an awesome housekeeper. Very religious.

“I attended elementary, middle, and high school in Montrose, CO. I was an academic student in high school, a member of The NHS, a participant in many school activities, and graduated in 1953. I met the love of my life, Pete, in 1949 and married in April of 1955 after Pete, who was stationed overseas, was honorably discharged from the US Army. After graduating from high school, I went to work as a legal secretary for the firm of Strang, Loesch & Kreidler. Pete and I got married in Montrose and moved to Grand Junction. I then worked at the Atomic Energy Compound in the legal department as a secretary. In 1956, Pam, our first daughter, was born. Then in 1957, Frank was born. In 1957, my father Frank, Pete and I opened a restaurant and bar ‘Frank’s Lounge’, became ‘Lori-Li Lounge’. We were in this business for seven years. In 1962, Reenie was born. In 1964, we opened another restaurant and bar business in Montrose, which we owned and operated until 1971, at which time we sold the business. I always wanted to be a nurse, and during this time, I was accepted into the R.N. nursing program at Mesa College. I was on the Dean’s Scholastic Honor list every quarter, received several scholarships, and graduated in 1970. In 1970, I started working at St. Mary’s Hospital and worked there 40 years. During my years there, I worked in many different areas, ICU, CCU, ER, Medical-surgical unit, orthopedic unit and PACU. I also set up the original IV Team in the late 1970’s.

“My beloved husband, Pete, who I will forever love passed away in 2006. We had been married for 51 years. He was my pillar of strength, and at times, I still cry over his loss. I never had to worry about anything that needed to be fixed- he could do it all. My children couldn’t have been blessed with a more wonderful father; he was so good to his children.

“I grew up loving and caring about family and friends, and still do. As a young person, I enjoyed roller skating, dancing, bowling, going to rodeos and driving stock cars. As I got older, I still enjoyed bowling and got really interested in sewing and crafts. I enjoyed watching my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren playing sports and traveling to their tournaments. Now, I enjoy going for walks, going out to eat, going to the movies, coffee time with friends, time with my family and GAMBLING! I was a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority for many years. I was a member of ASPAN in the past. My husband and I were members of a social group, The Committee, for many years. I was also a member and a participant of The Health Ministry at St. Joseph’s Church. I then became a member of Ladies Knights of Columbus at Immaculate Heart of Mary.

“I love my family, especially my children, my grandchildren, and my great-grandchildren. I loved my wonderful sister and her family, and the wonderful friends I made over the years. I cherish the love and respect I have for my wonderful, deceased family and friends. I am so grateful and thank God so much for the wonderful life he has blessed me with. I don’t know of anyone who could have as much love and support as I do. Pam and Reenie call me every morning and every night, and Frank also called me often, all checking to see if I’m okay or need anything. I appreciate it when my grandchildren call me- Rachel and Rebecca always give me a call. Pete and I were so blessed with raising such a wonderful family. I often think about how much I will miss all my loved ones when I leave. I know when I do have to leave, I will get to be with my beloved husband, my wonderful parents, my sister, and brother, and all my relatives and friends that have already left this world. When I am gone, I want all my loved ones who are left behind to know that I will be in a wonderful place, and they need to go on with their lives and be happy. They couldn’t have done more for me; they’re the best. We will all see each other again someday in heaven. I love my family- thank you all for being so good to me.”

Frances had a second chance with love, she remarried Paul in 2016 who passed away in 2022. She was able to explore new adventures such as road trips, camping, fishing, and even hiking. Her granddaughter Rachel moved in with her after his passing to care for her. She still enjoyed going out to eat and playing Ska-Vitch almost every day and eating one of those things (drumsticks). She really enjoyed watching Family Feud, especially Steve Harvey waving at her. She grew extremely close to her kids in the last few years with them all coming by and calling daily. She is going to be greatly missed but she has a great family to carry out her legacy.

A viewing will be held between 2pm-4pm on June 30, 2024, at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary followed by a memorial and rosary starting at 4pm. A brief viewing will be held Monday July 1st at 10:15-10:45 followed by services, 11am at Immaculate Heart of Mary and reception following. Burial services will take place July 10, at 1pm at Veterans Cemetery of Western Colorado.

A special thank you to Susan and the rest of the Hope West team! In lieu of flowers, in Fran’s honor, donations may be made to Hope West; 3090 North 12th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81506.