Frances A. Zelek

Zelek – Frances A. Those angels in heaven better have the vacuuming done and the furniture dusted because Frances Ann Zelek passed from this life on December 7, 2018 at the Palliative Care Unit at Good Samaritan after a brief illness to be reunited with her loving family that passed before. She was born January 21, 1937 in Johnstown PA. Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Michael G. Zelek; her son, Michael W. Zelek; her parents, Anna (Fedorovich) and Walter Killian; her twin brother, Edward Killian, who died in infancy; and her dear bro Frank Killian, who died earlier the same week. Francie is also preceded in death by her beloved companion of 20 years Patrick Stephens, whom she cared for during his recent illness. Francie is survived by her daughter, Dr. Lisa Walters, her son-in-law Dr. Thomas Walters, and her “little guy,” 6’3” lineman grandson Nicholas, all of Erie, PA.  Lisa will miss hearing the phone ring and saying, “Is that my mother again?” Tom will miss his cards being signed by Mother F, and Nicholas will miss the loving adoration of his grandmother, who held him above all. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law Debbie Vivis, who cared for her as she would her own mother, and whom Francie considered a daughter. She is also survived by her best friend and sister-in-law Shirley Killian, who will also miss hearing the phone ring and saying, “Is that Francie again?” Also remaining are her good and faithful cousins Mike Kost and Carole Killian Sokach who called her and checked on her daily.  She is also survived by her cousins Kathy Westfall, Mary Ann Macino, Johnny Fedorowich, and Michael Fedorowich with whom she remained close her entire life. Francie enjoyed the support and care of her Killian nieces, Debbie Castiglione, Lynn Brezensky, Sharon Callihan and Diane Killian.  Lynn recently took her Aunt Francie shopping to redo her bathroom, and got her the medical care she needed, allowing for Francie to pass in comfort and love of her family, for which Fran’s immediate family will be always grateful. These nieces were beloved by Francie, and she was always worried about “the girls.” These girls supported Francie and her family during her illness, although they were struggling with the loss of their own father.  Fran considered them as daughters and will certainly be butting into their business even now. As a testament to family, Francie was also beloved by her Zelek nieces, who called her, took her out to eat, and visited with her in the hospital: Michelle Mihelic-Smith, (who stayed at the hospital with Lisa throughout this ordeal); Suzanne Pietron, who visited at the hospital and took Fran out to eat and shop; Tanya Shaffer; who called and visited Fran at the hospital; Joy Zelek, who provided humor and good cheer.  She is also loved by her niece Ramona Piotroski; and her nephews Bryon Mihelic and Joey Zelek. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Helen Zelek of Verona, who was like Fran’s big sister. Fran will also be missed by her life-long friend Lois Fockler, who visited with Fran in the hospital and called her daily.  Fran loved Lois and was always concerned for Lois’s well-being, and Lois was always concerned for Francie. Mom, I begged you not to leave me, but now I understand. God sends his best warriors to fight the hardest battles.  Fran, you fought the good fight; you deserve your rest.  You will be missed. Friends will be received from 2 p.m. until time of service at 4 p.m. on Monday at the Baker-Harris Funeral Chapel, Conemaugh, Fr. Robert Ruston. Private burial will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.