Biography

Frances Emily Pope Dutson
February 22, 1937--March 2, 2010

Born in Greeley, Colorado, to loving parents Emily and Michael Pope, Frances was the youngest of three children, and is preceded in death by her older brothers, Leroy and Alvin (Helen). Frances grew up in Greeley and was very active in her church, playing the piano at Sunday services. She met the love of her life, Clyne Dutson, who was stationed in Wyoming, in the U.S. Air Force; they married in 1956, in Anchorage, Alaska, where Clyne was later stationed. Married for almost 54 years, Fran and Clyne raised three children, David (Jennifer), Dennis, and Krisann (Bob), in Littleton, Colorado, where they enjoyed snowy evenings together by the fireplace and skiing in the great Rocky Mountains.
Full of life and always on the go, Fran was the heart of her family and a friend to everyone she met. She was active in the Oro Valley United Church of Christ, serving for several years as the social director, before becoming ill. She was also a member of Roadrunners as Social Chair. Fran enjoyed playing the piano, spending time with her family, traveling, hosting dinner parties, and socializing with her friends. She was very artistic, a talented seamstress and cake decorator, who was a wonderful homemaker and gourmet cook. She spent much time working in sales and advertising and owned a small photography company for some time.
One of Fran’s greatest joys was spending time with her four grandchildren: Emily (18), Allison (16), Jonathon (13), and Patrick (13). She loved teaching them songs and games, and taking them on outings to the park to play, out for ice cream, and even to Disneyland and to family reunions.
With a beautiful spirit and incredible integrity and compassion reflected in her every action, Fran was quick to help, comfort, and lend a hand to her family and friends. Unwavering in her ability to see the good and potential in people, Frances could brighten up a room and soothe an aching heart. She had a magical touch, and even in her last days of much suffering, Mom’s only concern was about others, always grateful for the abundant blessings in her life. She will be buried in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Colorado, her true home, a place she loved dearly.
Thanks to the volunteers in the Relief Society of the LDS Church and to Carondolet Hospice for their continued care of mother. Special thanks to Mel, Nella, Jasmin, Dave, Gayla, Judy, Sylvia, Carole, and Susan of Carondolet.
Our Precious Mother will forever live in our hearts as a woman of strength and enduring love. We love you, Mom.

Please share a special memory of Fran in the guestbook.

Memorial Service

Sunday May 16, 2010, 1:00 - 1:40 at Oro Valley United Church of Christ
Click for Map and Directions

Following the service, please join the family for an Open House at the home of Bob and Krisann Schmidt

Open House

Sunday May 16, 2010, 2 PM - 5:30 PM at Home of Bob & Krisann Schmidt
Click for Map and Directions