Frances Elaine Harris

Jan. 8, 1923 - Dec. 2, 2020

SOUTH BEND, IN -

Frances (Fran) Harris was born in South Bend, Indiana. She met the love of her life, Jack Harris, while they were students at Central High School. They married in 1944 while Jack was in the Navy. As post-World War II parents they were grateful to be raising their family in optimistic and prosperous times in America. Jack and Fran enjoyed 71 years together, traveling, and renovating and selling homes including their early retirement home on Eagle Lake in MI.

Fran was an excellent mother, artist, and business owner. She enjoyed painting and became proficient enough to have many friends commission portraits of their family members.

After raising her family Fran started an Antique Mall in Mishawaka, IN. The Thieves Market quickly grew into a thriving business with 40 dealers. When Jack retired she sold the business and they moved to Venice, FL where they made many new friends. At Country Club Estates they were very active in community activities like boating and fishing club, Ladies cards, bocce, and the Three - I theatre group. Every year Fran created a script, chose the music, and designed the sets for an entertainment put on by the community residents of Indiana, Iowa, and Illinois. It was fun for all and a sold out event every year.

Fran was preceded in death by husband Jack Harris, her parents, Achille Vande Walle and Beulah (Kelly) Vande Walle; sisters, Betty Morris and Doris Schwartz, and son-in-law Dick Stevens. She is survived by her son, Tom Harris (Janie), daughter, Becky Stevens; granddaughters, Julia McLane (Patrick), Jessica Stevens (Chris), and Michelle Johnson (Chris); great-granddaughters, Hannah and Hailey Johnson, brother in-law, Louis Schwartz, many nieces and nephews.

Interment will be at the National Cemetery in Sarasota. No services are planned at this time due to the pandemic. Condolences to the family can be made at yourtraditionsfuneralhome.com.

12/09/2020 JFC