Frances Mira Hare

1924 - 2023

Our Mom/Grandma Fran/G.G. quietly passed away at the Royal Jubilee Hospital 3 weeks short of her 99th birthday. Fran, who lived in her family home of 70 years, was a native Victorian born to parents Reginald and Myra Rigby. She attended Sir James Douglas, Victoria High School (Class of 41), Victoria College and Provincial Normal School. She taught Grade 1 at Vic West Elementary.
She met Harold when they were children (their fathers worked together) and that friendship blossomed to a 5-decade marriage until Harold passed in 2000.
Fran, Harold and their boys enjoyed the Hare cottage at Deep Cove where they spent their summers creating memories and lasting friendships that she spoke of to the end. After they sold the cottage, they bought a sailboat and explored many beautiful spots on the Salish Sea. Fran was an avid fisher.
The family grew an enviable garden which they enjoyed over the summer, shared with their neighbours, and canned the excess for winter use. She baked her own (wonderful) bread and other homemade delicacies. Her carbon footprint was minimal and admirable.
When her children were older, she worked as an assistant at Harold's dental practice.
Defying all odds, she fought and overcame a grave cancer diagnosis 20 years ago. Her oncologist referred to Fran as her miracle patient. Perhaps a beer at 11:00 each day was her secret.
After Harold's passing, Fran became a docent at the Royal Victoria Museum where she volunteered for 15+ years. She made good use of her teaching skills and enjoyed many friendships there. She loved the docent trips exploring BC and its museums.
Fran will be sorely missed by her sons Doug and Rob (Jan), step grandchildren Alexander (Sarah) and Elana (Jerrett) plus 3 great-grandchildren.
No service by request but the family will tip a beer at 11:00 on her birthday in her honour.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society.