Frances Gunn

Gunn, Frances - O'Connor 80, Passed Away On May 22nd Surrounded by her children. She died peacefully at Whitefish Lake, MN. She will be remembered for her intelligence, her sense of humor, her love of reading, her loyalty, and most importantly for her love of family. Family is her legacy. Fran was born in St. Paul. She attended St. Mark's School, Derham Hall Academy, and the College of St. Catherine. She graduated with a BA in English from the University of Minnesota in 1947. In 1949, Fran and her husband, Robert Gunn, moved to Wichita Falls, TX, where they raised their four children. As a water safety instructor, Fran instilled in her children and hundreds of others an appreciation of the water and the skills with which to safely swim and enjoy its benefits. Beginning in 1954, Fran and her family spent each summer at Whitefish Lake, a special place close to many of her relatives and life-long friends. The cabin became a family retreat, a place for her children and grandchildren, where happiness flourished and traditions were founded. Fran particularly enjoyed the study and collection of antiques, hobbies that evolved into a business, Vail Village Antiques, in the 1980's. She was a supporter of many non-profits, including Camp Knutson, Project Self Sufficiency, Vail Valley Medical Center, The Wichita Falls Boys and Girls Club, Hospice, and the Vail Mountain School. Her children, Bill Gunn, Emily Gunn, and Sheila McCormack; daughter-in-law, Ann Gun and son-in-law, Michael McCormack; grandchildren, Suzanne, Greg, Julie, William, Robert, Charles, Christopher, Hallie, and Conor; great-grandchildren, Emma and Ben; and special friend and caregiver, Jane Bedford, survive her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Louis and Vincent L. O'Connor; her three siblings, Jack, Vincent, and Connie; her son, Vince Gunn; and her daughter-in-law, Nancy Gunn. Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, May 26, 1PM at OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS CHAPEL at Camp Foley, near Whitefish Lake, with Reverend Doctor Paul Fruth officiating. Friends may visit Wednesday, May 25, from 6:30-8PM at BRENNY FUNERAL CHAPEL in Crosslake. Interment will be in Pinewood Cemetery in Crosslake, with private family graveside services. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Camp Knutson, 11169 Whitefish Avenue, Crosslake, MN 56442. Services have been entrusted to BRENNY FUNERAL CHAPEL of Crosslake (218-692-5051).