Doris Crance

Doris Frey Crance

June 17, 1934 - December 5, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Doris Frey Crance, who died on December 5, 2024. Doris was born on June 17, 1934, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to parents John and Hedy Frey, who immigrated from Switzerland. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fred Crance, her sister, Heidi Carpenter, and her parents.

Doris is survived by her children, LoriAnne Draper (Kenny) and Gary Crance (Karen); her grandchildren, Dana Burke (Jamin), Allison Walstad (Wade), Jessie Crance, Travis Draper (Blair), Jacob Crance, and five cherished great-grandchildren. Doris and Fred, the love of her life, were married on July 12, 1957. They lived in upstate New York, where they raised their children and bought their first home in Fairport. In 1974, Fred's work with Xerox brought the family to Dallas, TX, and in 1987, they moved to San Diego. Doris returned to Dallas in April of this year, where she was delighted to be closer to her family.

Doris graduated from Buffalo State and began her career as a kindergarten teacher. After raising her children, she worked at the University of Texas at Dallas Library, continuing her lifelong dedication to education and service.

Doris was a tireless volunteer throughout her life. She served as a Girl Scout Leader, volunteered for the U.S. Census, was a member of the Board for Continuing Education for Seniors, and volunteered as an usher at multiple venues. Doris was also an active member of the Rancho Bernardo Women's Club. She loved being involved in senior groups and participated in activities such as theater outings, casino visits, continuing education classes, and guided tours. Her favorite theater was North Coast Rep in Solana Beach.

A creative spirit, Doris had many hobbies, including crafting, art, and photography. She was also an avid San Diego Padres fan and loved the ocean, the mountains, and bird watching. Doris cherished traveling the world with Fred, friends, and travel groups, capturing every precious moment through her photography, and documenting family and travel events with love and care.

Doris held her Swiss heritage close to her heart, having grown up on a farm. Her home was filled with Swiss memorabilia including a cuckoo clock, and she was proud of being an expert yodeler.

Doris was known for her friendly, sweet, kind, and passionate nature. Her determination, generosity, and unwavering love made those around her feel cherished and valued.

In honor of Doris' wishes, a family service will be held after the first of the year to place her ashes alongside those of her husband, Fred, at Rolling Oaks in Coppell, near the baseball fields where they loved watching their grandson, Travis, play.

In Lieu of Flowers please consider donation options below.

Doris' legacy of love, kindness, and joy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

Donations

American Heart Association

https://www.heart.org/

Audubon Society

https://www.audubon.org/

North Coast Rep Theater

https://northcoastrep.org/