Frances Jane Amundsen, 86

Frances Jane Amundsen quietly passed away early Friday morning, November 10, 2006 at Rainy River Hospital with family at her side.
She is survived by her sister Jessie (Norman) Neilsen of Baudette, MN; sisters in law Anne Sawchuk, Rainy River, Katie Pentney, Bergland; children Harry (Ann), Wooler, ON, John (Debbie) Rainy River, Allan (Sue) of Winnipeg and Marie (Joe) Kubera, Fort Frances; her beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who were so special to her.
Frances was predeceased her loving husband Amund in February 1998, twin brother Joseph Sawchuk, brother Harry Sawchuk sister Annie Sawchuk and parents Mary and Harry Sawchuk.
Frances was born on March 24, 1920 in Rainy River where she attended school and spent most of her life. Amund and Frances were married September 30, 1941 and had fifty-seven wonderful years together. When Amund left the farm to work for the CNR, at the Transcona Yards for about ten years, Frances stayed behind with the children to run the farm. He returned home every weekend at 4:20 a.m. 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 was also 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 she still worried just in case. And she was so loved in return.
A Memorial service was held on November 13, 2006 at Knox United Church in Rainy River with interment at McInnes Creek Chapple. Rev. Jill Warner officiated and Northridge Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
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 caroling 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