Franziska Crawford 1935-2026

She was born Nov. 29, 1935.

In 1958, Fran, a native German, married a U.S. Army serviceman, Gene King. During his service time of more than 20 years, they were stationed at many different bases in the United States and Germany. Jimmy, their first son, and Raymond, their youngest child, were born in Germany. Their only daughter, Carole, was born in the United States. When Gene retired from the Army in 1975, the family settled in Girard.

Fran was very proud of the fact that she obtained her American citizenship, learned to drive a car, spoke English fluently and obtained employment. She worked at Hill’s Department Store on Belmont Avenue in Youngstown. She made the best popcorn and Coke slushies of anyone! She retired when the store closed.

Fran was a lifelong music and dance enthusiast. She spent many days and nights at the Girard VFW and Ponderosa Park. She enjoyed seeing many country and western singers perform. She greatly enjoyed George Jones, Johnny Cash and the comedian, Minnie Pearl.

Fran was a proud member of American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Post 235 and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 419 Ladies Auxiliary, both of Girard. She was proud to have been the wife of an Army veteran. She was very active and assisted with many activities.

In addition to music, dancing and serving our country, Fran loved helping her family. She was always quick to help with household chores. Her greatest passion in life was the love she had for her family. She loved her grandchildren unconditionally and with all her heart. She would take them to many places and engage in many activities. She was always loving and supportive of each of them.

Fran had a full life, filled with family, friends and joy. She will be greatly missed, but will always be remembered for her kindness, willingness to help and her love of family.

Fran is survived by her three children, Jimmy (Carol) King of McDonald, Carole (William) Cupan of Strasburg, Virginia, and Raymond (Tammy) King of Girard; her grandchildren, Johnathan, Rena, Steven and Dylan; stepgrandchildren, DJ, Michael, Michele, Ashley and Danny; six great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; additional family members; her church family; and many friends.

Fran was preceded in death by her parents, Andreas and Maria Wohleber Makron, and her brother and sister-in-law, Johan and Honilori Makron.

A celebration of life will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at Girard First Baptist Church, 7 E. Kline St., Girard. Calling hours will be 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to First Baptist Church of Girard.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Girard. Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Fran’s family.

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