Frances Mary Wiesen

On August 20, 2025, Frances Mary Wiesen (née Mongan) passed away, surrounded by her family. Frances- known by those closest to her as "Fran"-always had a smile for everyone. She rarely had acquaintances, as anyone who knew her quickly became a treasured friend. "She was always willing to help others, you could always rely on her" says Amanda Bowman, one of her three daughters alongside Madison Snyder and Jessica Cutler, and stepson, Zachary.

Her willingness to help others started early in life, as the middle child in a family of eight. Born on January 16, 1957, in Philadelphia, and raised in a three-bedroom house with one bathroom. Fran quickly learned how to do a lot with a little. As she grew older, this led to meticulously planning out every situation to optimize her family or work's money or time.

It's no surprise that her resourcefulness also made her an exceptional employee. After moving to Florida, she worked for several companies, but most notably spent 17 years at McLane Company. From her coworkers who became lifelong friends, to the president of the division, Fran was well respected for her strong work ethic and knack for achieving the best possible outcome. When organizing McLane's charity golf tournaments, she often doubled the event's budget through community donations, a testament to her creativity and drive. Fran passed down her gift for organization, planning, and resourcefulness to her daughters. "I think much of my ability to multitask is because of Mom," Jessica said.

But it was her infectious personality that drew the attention of one coworker in particular, who later became her husband of 29 years. "I loved her smile and her caring attitude," Eric said. They wed at the Poinciana Country Club in Kissimmee, Florida. Throughout their marriage, they've enjoyed traveling together, especially to Ireland and on a cruise to Mexico for their 20th anniversary.

Locally, Fran's favorite outings were to Disney. She enjoyed strolling through the elaborate displays at EPCOT's Flower & Garden Festival or sampling new food or drinks at the Food & Wine Festival. At Christmastime, she never missed the Candlelight Processional, a tradition she shared with her closest friends for more than 20 years. Jessica fondly remembers signing her mom and younger sisters in with her main gate pass, special visits that inspired Fran to work at Disney herself.

Fran loved bowling, a pastime she picked up from her mom and continued through a league with Eric and friends. She enjoyed simple pleasures, going for walks or meeting friends for a meal. Among the joys that brightened her days was sharing food. "Mom loved to share food," Amanda said. "Her food was my food, and my food was her food."

Fran's generosity extended well beyond shared plates and into how she spent her time. When Zach and his family moved close by, Fran loved being part of their everyday lives, finding joy in watching Ella and Nolan grow. Once she retired, she helped Madi care for her newborn daughter, Saige, often taking the early morning shifts so Madi could rest. As "Mimi," she was very hands-on. "She always referred to Saige as 'our baby,'" Madi said.

Fran's proudest accomplishment was always her family and being present in their lives. As an adult, she remained very close with her siblings, with visits that would sometimes last weeks or months at a time, weekly video calls, or special trips like their siblings' cruises. Fran treasured time with her out-of-state daughters and their families-Amanda in Virginia and Jessica in Georgia-through weekly FaceTimes and regular visits, ensuring she was always a part of their lives. "She loved her siblings, kids and grandkids," said Eric.

Described as the glue that held everyone together, Fran's family will miss her meticulous planning and optimistic nature. "Don't sweat the small stuff," she would often remind Madi. "And it's all small stuff."

Fran is survived by her husband, Eric, daughters Jessica, Amanda, and Madison, her stepson, Zach, and her siblings Terri, Joe, and Nancy. She is reunited in peace with her parents, Theresa and John, and her siblings Jack, Kathy, Mike, and Patty. Her legacy continues through her eight grandchildren: Ella, Tate, Riley, Nolan, Finley, Graham, Ophelia, and Saige.

A celebration of Fran's life will be held at Camp Margaritaville, 361 Denton Ave, Auburndale, FL 33823, on September 27 from 1-5 p.m., where family and friends will gather to share memories, laughter, and love in her honor.