Obituary of Frances Elizabeth Park

If you’re about to throw anything away, stop! Frances (Betty or Dicky) Park who entered eternal life on Monday, May 23, 2016, would tell you to hold off getting rid of anything! You may need it later. She would often say you should learn to make do with what God has provided. He spirit is carried on by her four children, eight grandchildren, many great grandchildren, and an extended family of relationships and friends from every walk of life. We were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from “Mom” during her ninety-five years on the planet. Among these lessons, which are too numerous to list, were to let a dog (or 2 or 3) share your bed. Love your animals unconditionally, and keep your kids close to your heart. She excelled at growing plants, living within her means, never losing a game of cards, or “Are you smarter than a fifth grader”. She would invite new friends to Thanksgiving Dinner. If they were from another country and you had trouble understanding them, learn to listen with an “accent”. Never say mean things about anybody for they may be “pour souls to pray for”. Keep the car keys under the front seat so they don’t get lost. Make the car dance by lightly tapping the brakes to the beat of the music on the radio. Of course this only works on a lightly traveled country road. Choose to believe in the best in everyone. During her lifetime mom was constantly worried about her children, some of whom gave her good reason to worry. But, she always put them first. Those who’ve taken her lessons to heart will continue to ensure that everyone we come in contact with has “significance”. Mom also had the pioneer spirit that continues as an example for all of us. She was also resourceful and quietly stubborn. One of her great talents was writing. She was excellent at capturing the essence of numerous topics as evidenced by her weekly columns in the INYO County Courier. She loved the open spaces and lifestyle of Owens Valley where she and her husband lived for many years. You may read this obit and recall a letter from her that touched your heart, tickled your funny bone, or maybe made you say, “Wow”. We have so many memories that were funny, or sad, or heartfelt that we will cherish and recall them forever. Mom is now reunited with her husband Edward sister Mary, and our grandparents Carrie and Frank. Hope you had a great trip, mom.