Frances Maxwell

Frances Karlan Maxwell Frances Karlan Maxwell (Fran), born January, 1915 in Topeka, KS, was the daughter of Charles A and Elizabeth Biebel Karlan. She passed away Sept 8, 2013, in Lenexa, KS, with her children at her side. Fran married Donald Capper Maxwell in Topeka in 1944. She was predeceased by her husband, parents, step-mother Dora Foshay Karlan, and brother and sister-in-law Charles B and Thora Backman Karlan. Fran graduated from Topeka High School in 1933, Monticello Junior College in 1935, and was a Gamma Phi Beta at the University of Kansas. While living in Topeka, she was an officer of the Karlan Furniture Company and active in Central Congregational Church and numerous community organizations. After the death of her husband in 1979, Fran moved with her daughter's family to Virginia Beach, VA, and then East Lyme, CT. She became a resident of Lakeview Village, Lenexa, KS twenty-three years ago. Fran is survived by daughter, Patricia Maxwell Carney and husband David Carney of Virginia Beach; son, Robert A Maxwell, M.D. and wife Nanette Guignon Maxwell of Fairway, KS; 6 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. She will be missed by them and her devoted niece, nephews, and extended family. Fran's love of nature began at Lakeview Fishing and Shooting Club near Lawrence, KS where she delighted in swimming, boating, and walking in the woods. From an early age, she spent her summers at a family lake cabin near Walker, MN. There she caught a 38 lb. northern pike when only 12 yrs old. Fran passed her love of the out-of-doors to her extended family. Fran was a published writer and an avid gardener, painter, and volunteer throughout her life. Following her wishes, interment in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Topeka, was private. Condolences may be offered at www.mtmoriah-freeman.com. Frances Karlan Maxwell