FRANCES SLATER

SLATER, FRANCES IRENE
Frances Slater, a devoted mother, proud grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on September 18, 2025, at Marshall Gowland Manor in Sarnia, Ontario.

Born in Espanola, Ontario, Frances was the daughter of Joseph Edward and Catherine Elizabeth Dubeau, and sister to Edward (Patricia) Dubeau. Her father's work in the paper mill and later the railway meant her early years were shaped by frequent moves that took the family from Espanola to Sault Ste. Marie, Pine Falls (Manitoba), Port Arthur and finally Fort William (Thunder Bay).

At the age of 15, while at a crowded train station bidding farewell to her brother who was going off to war, she met a young Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve sailor who was also heading to war. He struck up a conversation with her and, throughout the war, they exchanged letters. During his occasional shore leaves while serving in the Battle of the Atlantic, he visited Frances. After the war and almost five years after their chance meeting, Frances married Oliver Slater. Their union spanned nearly 73 years, a testament to their love and devotion.

Frances worked for 27 years at the Bank of Commerce in Thunder Bay before enjoying her retirement years in Florida and Thunder Bay. Thirty-five years ago, Oliver and she settled in Forest and later Sarnia to be closer to her sons and grandchildren, a move that brought her great joy.

Fran embraced life with warmth and enthusiasm. She loved camping, fishing, golfing, ocean cruises and traveling, with Hawaii holding a special place in her heart. A lifelong animal lover, she always had a dog or a cat by her side. She delighted in hosting parties-whether for neighbourhood friends or work friends-and cherished hosting family gatherings and celebrations. An organizer, avid reader, crossword puzzle solver, and family genealogist, she was also an excellent cook with a doting nature who always made sure that everyone was served fully before she sat down to what used to be her hot meal.

Predeceased by her brother Edward, and devoted husband Oliver, she is survived by her sons Ken and Tom (Jodi); her grandchildren, Megan and Bennett, who most filled her heart with pride and joy; and her extended family: Patricia Dubeau and nephews David, Doug, Tim, Rick and Warren. Her love, laughter and quiet strength will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

A special thank you to the superb staff at Marshall Gowland Manor, caring and compassionate angels in

"Poppy" who made her end-of-life journey one of peace and dignity. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the Sarnia and District Humane Society or St. Joseph's Hospice Sarnia-Lambton (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.

Memories and condolences may be sent online at www.smithfuneralhome.ca