Frances "Fran" Joan Abbott

Frances “Fran” Joan Abbott (née Kraker), age 92, of Shoreview, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025.

Born in Virginia, MN, Fran was the youngest child of Emily and Joseph Kraker Sr. A graduate of Roosevelt High School (1951) and The College of St. Scholastica (1955), she received a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology, and later joined the U.S. Army’s Special Services, directing recreation for servicemen in France. Her travels as a child with her family within the U.S. and Canada, along with her time in Europe, sparked a lifelong love of travel and adventure.

Fran raised her six children in Shoreview, MN. She worked for many years as an executive secretary at Land O’Lakes and later as a women’s advocate at Ascension Place and St. Anne’s Place. A tireless volunteer, she gave her time to Trevilla Nursing Home, wildflower clubs, hospice care, meal programs, and advocacy for peace—spearheading the installation of Peace Poles in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

She was an avid reader, theatergoer, traveler and (surprisingly) adventure seeker: blowing glass in Seattle, riding horses in Alaska, cruising through the Panama Canal, trekking across Portugal, returning to Paris over 50 years later as a tourist, and zip-lining in Costa Rica. As if to top herself, she persuaded a dozen of her children and extended family members to skydive with her for her 80th birthday. She found great joy in nature, spiritual study, and gathering with her beloved “Birthday Club” friends of over 50 years.

Fran was preceded in death by her son John Jr., her parents, and her brothers Joseph Jr. (Joe) and Robert (Bob). She is survived by her children: Chantal (Tom Syfko) Doriott; Laurel (Fred) Bird; Joe (Suzy) Abbott; Jay (Karen) Abbott; and Dana (Neil) Vanderbosch; nine grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, a niece, a nephew, and many dear friends.

Fran will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, kind heart, and deep belief in peace and helping others.

A celebration of Fran’s life will be Saturday, August 2, 2025, 12:00 P.M. at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 2800 Curve Crest Boulevard, Stillwater with visitation one hour prior to the service.