Marianne FRASE

Marianne (Somers) Frase, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and friend, departed this life peacefully, surrounded by her family. She leaves a legacy of kindness, love, and warm hospitality.

Born in Orinda, California, Marianne spent her childhood in the Bay Area. At a young age, she experienced a serious illness that led to a long hospitalization, isolating her from family and friends. When she returned to school a year later, she?felt ostracized and alone. This experience shaped who she became: a woman of profound empathy, whose warm heart and inclusive spirit ensured that everyone she encountered felt valued, welcomed, and seen.

Marianne attended the University of California at Berkeley, where she met her lifelong love, Ron Frase, at Berkeley Presbyterian Church. Their 64-year marriage was not only a bond between two people, but a testament to living with purpose, faith, and joy.

Shortly after the birth of their first daughter, Michelle (Shelly), in 1960, Marianne and Ron followed a calling to serve as missionaries in Brazil with the Presbyterian Church (USA), where their second daughter, Melissa, was born. They returned to Princeton University on furlough, planning to go back to Brazil, but a military coup made that impossible. While Ron pursued his doctoral studies, Marianne began her teaching career. They both taught at Westminster Schools in Atlanta before the family settled in Spokane in 1973, where Ron joined the faculty of Whitworth College (now University).

Beloved by her students as "the ladybug lady," Marianne was passionate about her teaching. Her classroom was full of books, creativity, and wonder. Her belief that every child deserves access to learning in a holistic and nurturing environment led Marianne to get involved with Liberty Park Early Learning Center, where she served on the board for many years.

Marianne and Ron built a strong community through their church, Whitworth, and among educators, neighbors, and fellow advocates for peace and justice. Marianne joined Ron in leading student trips to Central and South America, where young people had an immersive experience, engaging firsthand with the challenges faced by developing countries and forming a deep connection with the people and the culture.

Marianne was known for her gracious hospitality. "Hotel Frase," as their home was affectionately called, welcomed family and friends, students, and travelers from around the world with good food, lively conversation, and a deep sense of belonging. Her signature dish, Brazilian feijoada, was a favorite, and there was always room for one more at their table. Her creativity and love of food and celebrations led to the creation of two books Marianne co-authored with her dear friends Linda and Doris, all handwritten in her distinctive schoolteacher script and illustrated by her students.

Marianne taught us to live generously, to remain curious and compassionate, and to build a home that welcomes the world. She is already deeply missed. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ron Frase; and her brother, Robert Somers. She is survived by her daughters, Shelly (John Owen) and Melissa (Stephen Alfstad); her grandchildren, Justin (Elisa Alfstad), Blake (Steven Bruce), Courtney and Claire; and her great-grandchildren, Aleister, Paloma, Orlando, Shiloh, and Sofia.

Her family invites you to join us in celebrating her life on September 13th, at 2 pm, at Manito Presbyterian Church. Her family is deeply grateful for the loving care provided by Touchmark's dedicated caregivers, especially those in the memory care unit. We also appreciate the support provided by Hospice of Spokane. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to contribute to Liberty Park Early Learning Center in her memory.