Frances TerWisscha

Frances TerWisscha

Frances TerWisscha passed into the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at the Christian Health Care Center. She was 91 years old.

The Graveside Committal will be at 11:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 29 at Monumenta Cemetery followed by a noon Memorial Service at Faith Community Church, Lynden.

Frances was born on Sept. 14, 1931, in Sioux Center Iowa, to John and Julia (Hollander) Vreeman. She attended school thru the 8th grade. While living on the family farm, Frances met Gerald TerWisscha.  They got married in her parents’ house in Murdock, MN on June 8, 1951.

In 1952, Frances and Gerald moved to Lynden. They eventually owned and operated Community Farm Service until 1978, where Fran was the bookkeeper. She was a fantastic homemaker, always baking goodies, canning fruits and vegetables, keeping a nice home and welcoming friends and family.

Fran and Gerald were members of Faith Community Church in Lynden. They enjoyed traveling, golfing, fishing and wintering in Arizona.

Shortly after her 50th wedding anniversary Gerald died, and for the last 20 years Fran has dealt with many health issues. She handled these issues with God’s help and grace. Fran was very gracious and never complained.

Fran resided at the Christian Health Care Center for the last four years. She prayed daily for her children, grandchildren, and friends. She especially enjoyed socializing and hymn sings. She made many friends, both residents and staff. We appreciate all the care and encouragement she received.

Frances is survived by her children Larry (Barb) TerWisscha of Marysville, Dale (Marlene) TerWisscha of Everson, Diane (Arnie) Houg of Lynden, and Pam (Rich) DeVries of Lynden; 15 grandchildren, and 31 great grandchildren.  

She will be greatly missed by her siblings Marvin (Ruby) Vreeman of Willmar, MN, Joan (Rens) (Stan)  Kroese  of Sioux Center, IA, Marlys (Dale) VandeReit of Wahkon, MN, and John (Linda) Vreeman of Maple Grove, MN. 

Frances is preceded in death by her husband Gerald, grandson Joel DeVries, great grandson Macklen Peterson, and siblings Gerald, Dennis, Clayton, Gladys, and Dorothy.

Memorials can be made to the Christian Health Care Center or your favorite charity. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.