Frances Elaine "Fran" Dohse

Fran Dohse, age 85, of Prairie du Chien, passed away on April 23, 2025. She was born on August 16, 1939, in Prairie du Chien, WI, the daughter of Claire and Hazel (Stender) Reed. She married Peter Dohse on March 10, 1962, in Prairie du Chien.
She grew up in the 4th Ward and was the 4th child in a family of 9. She had many fond memories, especially one in which she and her friends would take a boat out in the night on the Mississippi River for giggles.
Fran worked at National Dec in the hydraulic press room, where she later shared that it became a job she really enjoyed.
Peter and Fran moved to Milwaukee in 1965 and resided there for 37 years before returning to Prairie du Chien to retire.
She loved raising her children and found great satisfaction in their accomplishments. Fran worked for 14 years for St. Francis of Assisi Parish Capuchins as their cook, then later babysat for children in the neighborhood and was known as "Granny Frannie."
Fran took great pride in her home and loved to host holidays and family get-togethers. She decorated, cooked, and baked everything herself. Everyone looked forward to her ribs and infamous BBQ sauce, banana bread, and cut-out cookies. Holidays were very special to her, and the Christmas tree was always up early, with presents in abundance. Fran was an avid reader and always had a book on hand.
Fran and Peter traveled to 48 states and always had pictures to share with family and friends. They often visited their beloved hometown of Prairie du Chien to reconnect with family and old friends.
Fran is survived by her beloved husband of 63 years, Peter; children, Greg Dohse and twin daughters, Cheri and Terri Dohse; 5 grandchildren, Michael Slaske, Joshua Dohse, Jennifer Dohse, Blake Reible Jr., and Jordan (Schwarting) Reible; and 2 great-grandchildren, Liam Dohse and Ronan Slaske.
In respect of Fran's wishes, a private funeral service will be held. Burial will be at the Reed gravesite in Evergreen Cemetery.
The Thornburg Funeral Home of Prairie du Chien is assisting the family.