It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Frances Begall; Mother and Oma to her children, many grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Frances’ journey led her to Canada in 1956 when she emigrated from Slovenia. It was in Canada that she met the love of her life, her husband Werner Begall. They settled in Thunder Bay and raised their family of five children – 3 sons, and 2 daughters. Frances and Werner started the family business together – Begall Trophies and Engraving, which is still operating today by their son Roy. Frances worked many jobs outside the family business, but her job as Roy’s secretary was the one she enjoyed the most and helped out with up until her illness.
Frances had many pleasures, but her greatest pleasure was her family. She was very proud of each and every one of them and she spoke of them often. Sunday dinners at Oma’s were always something to look forward to, along with visits with her grandchildren playing skipbo, telling stories, and recounting memories of their past – no one ever left Oma’s without a full stomach. She was an amazing cook and her homemade, healthy meals were always delicious and another pleasure she always shared with the whole family.
Frances had a love for travelling – Werner and Frances spent many years as “Winter Texans” frequently visiting Guadalahara (Mexico) during these visits. She travelled to her homeland, Slovenia many times – sharing photos after each and every visit.
Frances was a storyteller and had many tales to tell from her early years in her homeland, to Germany, to her many travels abroad, and anywhere in between – anyone who would lend an ear was privy to these stories. Frances had many dear friends and stayed close to them throughout her life no matter how much distance was between them.
Her garden was another passion she had and all the family reaped the rewards from it. Preserving jams and jellies, always up for a trip to go blueberry picking, or harvest the goods from her own back yard.
Frances’ faith took her to mass regularly. Faith was part of her daily life and she knew and felt that God was with her wherever she was – We give special thanks to Reverand Ed Long for his support along Frances’ Journey.
Frances was a beautiful, kind, caring and generous woman. No words can describe how dearly she will be missed by her family. She will continue to be an inspiration of strength and commitment for anyone who was close to her.
Frances was predeceased by her Husband, Werner Begall (2004), and her daughter Sandra (2013) as well as family members abroad. She is survived by her Children – sons Reinhold, Roy (Cindi), Don (Paula), and daughter Cora (Cam) Grandchildren – Bobby (Heather), Brian (Mandy), Peter (Ashley), Nikita (Clayton), Raija (Tanner), Kyla (Jani), Kurt, Ryan (Chelsey), Justyn (Kara), and Emma (J.P.) Great grandchildren – Everly, Reid, Hayden, Eden, Hudson, and Aili. Frances is also survived by her Brother Frank (Hella) in Ottawa, nieces (Cathy and Christi) in Italy, Nephews (Peter and Ignac and their families) in Slovenia, along with other relatives and friends.
The family of Frances Begall would like to extend our gratitude to the Northwest Local Health Integration Network with special thanks to Dr. Bezanson, Lynda Roussel, and Deborah McGoldrick along with the assistance of the care workers who supported her. Special thanks to Eila, Barbara, Doris, Louiska, and The Oitzl Family for their care and support. Thank you to everyone who visited and provided comfort to Frances.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 2,2017 at Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 North Cumberland Street. A reception will follow after the service. Donations can be made in Frances memory to the local Cancer Centre at TBRHSC.
