Frances "Frankie" Marta

Aug. 31, 1917 - April 29, 2011

SPEARFISH - Frances Beatrice Marta - known by her friends and family as Frankie, 93, Spearfish, passed away peacefully Friday, April 29, 2011, with her family by her side.

Frankie was born Aug. 31, 1917, at Two Top in Harding County to Ellis and Sena Furois. She had four siblings; Leonard, Edith (Egan), Venita (Marta) and Reta (Velzy). She spent her childhood years in St. Onge and later moved to Deadwood where she graduated from Deadwood High School.

On July 29, 1937, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, Angelo J. Marta, in Lead. Together they had three children - Grada (Fritz), Karen (Crotty), and John.

Frankie resided in Lead and enjoyed working for many years at the J&E Store on Main Street in the dry goods department. She was also employed by Marilyn's Gifts in Deadwood and later retired from Terry Peak Ski & Sport.

Frankie and Angelo cherished 38 years of marriage until his untimely passing in 1975. She wore her little gold band as a testament of her love and remained wholly devoted to her husband until her last breath.

In 1990, Frankie moved to Spearfish and resided with her son, John, and his family until the time of her passing. During her full life, she enjoyed many travels and adventures. She was well-known for her cooking, sewing, hard work ethic, determination and love for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Frankie lived a life that was surrounded with activity, family, and love.

She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lead.

Frankie is survived by one sister, Reta (Jim) Velzy, Yankton; two daughters, Grada (Mel) Fritz, Newport Richey, Fla., and Karen (Charles) Crotty, Deadwood; a son, John (Pam) Marta, Spearfish; 12 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; two sisters; brother; and a nephew.

A rosary and vigil will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 3, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lead.

Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 4, at the church, with Father Kerry Prendiville officiating. A luncheon will follow. Inurnment will be at Little Dane Cemetery in St. Onge.

A memorial has been established in Frankie's name for the Little Dane Church and Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Crematory Service of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com.