Frances M Marek

Frances Maryann Marek, a woman of unyielding strength and persistence, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on December 20, 1931, to Polish immigrant parents, Frances embodied resilience, grace, and devotion, touching countless lives with her quiet yet powerful presence.

As a young woman, Frances worked for the U.S. Government. While stationed in France, she met S-Sgt. Conard "Connie" Oran Blevins Jr. (d. May 26, 2013). They married in 1955 at a Nuptial Mass in the Post Chapel, Camp des Loges, Sainte-Germaine-en-Laye, France. Embarking on a journey of almost two decades together that produced seven children. Unfortunately they divorced in the early 1970s, requiring Frances to raise their seven children alone: Diane, Joann, Michael, Rita, Carol, Karen, and Annie (d. 2022). She relocated the entire family to Modesto, California, where she built a new chapter, working first as a police dispatcher and later at the County Recorder's Office until her retirement.

Frances' passions extended beyond her family. Her garden was her sanctuary, where she nurtured plants and was known for her mastery skills in growing absolutely anything. A journey to Poland later in life, with her first granddaughter Angie, illuminated her pride in her heritage and forged a deep connection to her roots.

She leaves behind six of her seven children, seven of eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Frances never remarried; her focus remained on surviving the challenge of raising seven children by herself.

In lieu of flowers, please honor her by cherishing time with nature.

Her life reminds us: "True strength blooms in sacrifice, and true beauty shines in devotion to family."