Frances Westergren

Frances Kaye Westergren, age 78, of Brooklyn Center, and formerly of Bertha and Wadena, passed away suddenly on June 13, 2024, at Maranatha Care Center, Presbyterian Homes in Brooklyn Center, MN.
A family graveside service will be held at a future date at Zion Cemetery, Bertha MN.
Fran was born the second child of Stanley and Eileen (Krause) Westergren on February 6, 1946, in Bertha MN. Growing up on the farm meant helping care for four younger siblings and participating in the Bertha High Flyers, a Todd County 4-H club. Her 4-H entries included cooking and baking as well as participation in many other programs. At Bertha-Hewitt High School she was active in the marching band and several school activities. After graduation she attended Clinton Job Corps Center for Child Development. Fran spent several years as a live-in nanny and was always happy to assist her brothers with childcare when needed. After moving to Wadena, she held jobs in food preparation and service in several area locations, including the family café, Eileen's Kitchen. In her retirement years, she relocated to the Twin Cities to be closer to family.
Fran was a devoted Minnesota sports fan, especially cheering on the Vikings and the Twins. She loved challenging jigsaw puzzles, both at her puzzle table in her apartment and with fellow retired residents in the community activity room. Her outgoing personality won her many friends in both the Wadena area and Brooklyn Center; all of whom will miss her beaming smile. She loved her family and welcomed visits and communications of all varieties. Fran enjoyed experiencing new places, by bus trips to area attractions and family outings in Colorado, Hawaii, West Virginia, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Iowa.
She is survived by brothers Larry (Judy) of Iowa, Don of Colorado, and Dean of Minneapolis; sister Sandra of Minneapolis; nieces, nephews, spouses, and children; aunts Sylvia, Evelyn, Marilee, and Betty; Uncle Eugene; cousins and friends.
Fran is preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Eileen; brother Dan; many aunts and uncles; cousins; and friends.