Frances Veronica Plesko, 86, gently passed away at Saint Mary's Hospice on June 18, 2010, surrounded by her loved ones. She left this world as she lived in it, with grace and dignity.

The first of eight children, she was born in Hibbing to Steve and Ann Milinkovich on December 8, 1923. Fran was married to Vince Plesko for 62 years and resided in Oliver for most of her adult life. She lived at the Villa Rita in Superior since 2005. Over the course of a 25-year career as an LPN, Fran cared for countless patients at Nopeming Nursing Home.

Fran was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. She was also an excellent baker and loved to treat her guests with fresh coffee and homemade poticia, strudel, cookies, cake, or apple squares.

Her favorite pastime was listening to classical music and opera. She did, however, appreciate all music from Elvis to the Swinging Slovenians and loved to hear her many talented children, grandchildren, nephews, and nieces perform.

Fran was preceded in death by her husband Vince, brother Joseph, and sister Josephine. She is survived by her daughter, Diane Jezierski, Duluth, son Forrest (Susan) Plesko, Denver, grandson Scott Jezierski, Duluth, grandson Forrest (Meghan) Plesko, Denver, great-granddaughter Kaleena Mace, Duluth, and great-great-grandson Dominik Mace, Duluth. She will also be remembered by her brothers John, Stanley, Matthew, Steve, Donald, and Thomas, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

Fran will be deeply missed by all of her family and friends.

We want to express our deep gratitude to the nurses, staff, and doctors at St. Mary's Hospice in Duluth for their compassionate and dedicated care.

Memorial Service to be held Thursday, June 24, at 11 a.m., Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th and Ogden, Superior. Family and friends luncheon to follow.