Frances A. Messany, 96, took the hand of our Lord on October 30, 2013 at Essentia St. Mary's Hospital in Duluth.

Frances was born in Omaha, Neb., on Jan. 31, 1917 the daughter of Joseph and Veronica Benak. She grew up with three brothers and three sisters.

She married the love of her life, Frank Messany, Sr., while their favorite song, "Let Me Call You Sweetheart,'' was playing. This tradition was continued as this song was played at all the family weddings.

Her favorite place in the world was their cabin, known as "Old Abe's," where family gathered for reunions for many years. She loved to travel to Hawaii and spent many winters there. She also traveled across the US. Later in life she was happy to travel to Eau Claire to her daughters where we had Luaus for our family reunions. She loved to sit back and watch the family grow and grow.

She had three favorite sayings, "See you round like a donut," See you when I see you," and "all my Aloha Love."

Frances had moved to Middle River Health Facility and was known as the "Yoo Hoo" Lady. She always said she had a living movie watching everyone bustle around, they were her second family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Frank Messany, Sr.; a son, Frank, Jr.; 3 grandchildren; and her brothers and sisters.

Frances is survived by her children, Joseph (Bernice) Messany of Arizona, Betty (Delroy) Johnson of Lake Nebagamon, Wis., Mary (Russell) Root of Eau Claire, Wis., Frances (Melvin) Saline of South Range, Wis. and Patricia (Dean) Polkoski of Lake Nebagamon; a daughter-in-law, Sandra Messany of Madison, Wis.; 17 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren and 17 great-great-grandchildren.

Following Frances' wishes, a private family gathering will be held. Interment will be in Hawthorne Cemetery.

Downs Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.