FRANCES JANE AMUNDSEN

Frances Jane Amundsen passed away quietly early Friday morning, Nov. 10, 2006 at Rainy River Hospital in Rainy River, Ont. with family at her side.
She is survived by her sister, Jessie (Norman) Neilsen of Baudette, Mn.; sisters-in-law, Anne Sawchuk of Rainy River, Ont. and Katie Pentney of Bergland, Ont.; children, Harry (Ann) of Wooler, Ont., John (Debbie) of Rainy River, Ont., Allan (Sue) of Winnipeg, Man., and Marie (Joe) Kubera of Fort Frances, Ont.; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many neices and nephews who were so special to her.
Frances was predeceased her loving husband, Amund, in February, 1998; twin brother, Joseph Sawchuk; sister, Annie Sawchuk; brother, Harry Sawchuk Jr.; and parents, Mary and Harry Sawchuk.
Frances was born March 24, 1920 in Rainy River, where she attended school and spent most of her life. Amund and Frances were married Sept. 30, 1941 and had 57 wonderful years together.
When Amund left the farm to work for the CNR, at the Transcona Yards, for about 10 years, Frances stayed behind with the children to run the farm. He returned home every weekend at 4:20 a.m. on Saturday morning and Frances had a steaming delicious breakfast on the table.
When Amund retired, they spent many happy years working at the lake.
Frances was a kind and loving person who opened her home to everyone. She lived, to the best of her ability, by the “Golden Rule.” She absolutely loved people.
Her flower gardens were a source of great pride. The smell of freshly-mowed grass gave her tremendous pleasure. She loved to watch the deer, but they better stay out of the gardens or watch out!
She had many bird feeders to oversee in later years, and had a great knowledge about the huge variety of birds who partook in the food and goodies left for them.
She also loved the lake; fishing, watching the children and grandchildren playing in the water, and enjoying a great sunset. Each sunset was better than the last and deserved a picture.
She also was a spectacular cook—a talent that was enjoyed by many.
Frances was a member and supporter of Knox United Church and McInnes Creek Chapel. She was blessed with a very strong faith.
Her greatest love was her family, extended families, and friends.
She was a huge worry wart. There were so many people she had to worry about because her ear was always cocked for someone’s problem. But even when things were just fine, but she still worried . . . just in case.
And she was so loved in return.
A memorial service was held Monday, Nov. 13, 2006 at Knox United Church in Rainy River, with interment at McInnes Creek Chapel Cemetery.
Rev. Jill Warner officiated.
Online condolences may be left at www.northridgefuneralhome.com
The following piece is not written by Frances, but echoes her voice:
I have worked in the fertile Earth and planted a garden, so I know what faith is.
I have listened to the birds carolling in the early morning and at dusk, so I know what music is.
I have seen the morning without clouds after showers, so I know what beauty is.
I have sat before a wood fire with old friends, so I know what companionship is.
I have walked the paths of quietness along the forest floor, so I know what peace is.
I have dwelt in the valley of remembrance and on the hills of home, so I know what love is.
I have seen the miracle of spring, the fruition of summer, and the beauty of autumn, followed by the repose of winter, so I know what life is.
And because I have perceived all these things, I know what God is.
—Walter Lewis Smith