Frances J. Karr

Frances J. Karr, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2024, in Westlake, Ohio, at the age of 89. Born on August 8, 1934, in Elyria, Ohio, Frances was the cherished daughter of Laurence and Dorothy Ptak. She grew up in a warm household filled with love and laughter, alongside her siblings Juanita, Mary Kay, and Joseph.
Fran was a proud graduate of Strongsville High School, class of 1952. During her time at Strongsville High School, she was a cheerleader, basketball player, sang in the Triple Trio (competing at State Competition), and played the piano. Her passion for caring for others led her to attend Nursing School, where she honed the caregiving skills that would become the hallmark of her life. On October 6, 1956, she married the love of her life, James Karr Jr., and together they embarked on a journey of love, commitment, and family that would span 67 incredible years.
Together, Fran and James welcomed ten wonderful children into the world: Barbara (Thomas) Cagley, Laurence Allen (deceased), James (Sandra) Karr, Mary (William) Doerge, Laurette (Todd) Maddock, Mark (Lynne) Karr, Christopher Karr, William Jude (deceased), Steven Scott (deceased) and Kevin (Jill) Karr. Frances embraced her role as a homemaker and stay-at-home mom with grace and joy, creating a home that was a sanctuary of warmth and care for her family.
Fran's life was a testament to the power of love and the importance of family. She was a guiding light to her siblings, including her late sister Juanita Stork, her sister Mary Kay McLean, and her brother Joseph (Kate) Ptak. Her legacy continued to flourish with the birth of each grandchild: Meghan, Alison, Sterling, Aaron, Caralyn, William, Michael, Jacob, Colin, Ian, Olivia, Nathan, Rebecca, Logan, Alexandra, Jared, and Riley. She was also blessed to see the family tree grow with the addition of great-grandchildren Warren, Henry, Ada, Ari, Bo, Georgia, Delilah, and Mathew.
Fran's nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family. She was a caregiver at heart, always ready to cradle the newest babies of the family, offering comfort and love with every touch. Her hands were never idle, as she found joy in knitting and crochet, creating countless pieces that would wrap her loved ones in the warmth of her affection.
Her home was an open door, a place where laughter was shared, stories were told, and memories were made. Frances's presence was a comforting constant, a source of unwavering support and unconditional love. Before her passing she had said to her daughter, "My family was my life's work. I am proud and happy."
Services and interment will be private for the family.