Francine M. Clark

Francine was born in Timber, Oregon on May 14, 1934 to Clarence and Viola Girsberger. She grew up in the Sheridan area and Graduated from Sheridan High School. Fran began her working life at a bank in McMinnville shortly after graduating from high school and then later went to work in accounting for NW Packing and Allison Electric.

In 1976 Fran moved to Alaska with a friend. She returned to Oregon, settling in Portland, in 1986 to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren. Upon her return Fran went to work at St. Vincent Medical Center in accounting for the OB/GYN Department, where she took great joy working near the babies. Fran left St. Vincent Medical Center to open her own dog grooming business, Best Friends Bath & More, in North Portland. In 2010 Fran retired and the shop closed.

Fran was a strong willed and independent woman who had no problem letting you know what she thought (good, bad, or indifferent). She loved animals, especially her dogs and cockatiels. On the weekends she could be found in the garden with her grandchildren or out on one of their many hiking trips to Multnomah Falls and other local spots. While indoors, Fran enjoyed putting together puzzles, knitting, crocheting, and sewing. Fran also enjoyed music, listening to country and the blues.

Fran is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Shawneen and Donald Betha; sisters, Lorrene Blair and Patricia Highley; grandchildren, Josh Clark-Redeau, Rayleen Clark, and Lasweet Betha; and great-grandchildren, Acacia, Mackenzey, Jadynn, Josyah, Isaiah, and Thomas. She was preceded in death by her great-grandson, Joshawn.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Oregon Humane Society.