Fran Tamminen

Frances Marie Tamminen, age 76, of Appleton, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on April 3, 2017. Fran was born in Crystal Falls, Michigan, on August 4, 1940, daughter of the late Joseph and Marian (Wilgreen) Kukura. After graduating from Forest Park High School in 1958, she met and soon married the love of her life, Donald Tamminen, in 1961. They would have celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary this October.

Fran was a natural care giver and nurturer throughout her life. She worked as a Nurses Aid after high school. She then raised her family while pursuing her cosmetology license from the City College of Cosmetology in Appleton. After a short career as a beautician, she returned to her true calling of serving people in need. Fran's faith guided her life in many ways; through her bible studies and choir. She also enjoyed bowling, gardening and fishing with her husband. Fran was also a pioneer in water conservation collecting rain water during fierce thunderstorms. Above all, Fran loved being a loving wife and a caring mother.

Fran is survived by her husband of 55 years: Don Tamminen; their children: Lisa (Guy) McRann, and their daughter Ashley McRann: Lori (Steve) Weihing, and their children Kayla and Courtney Weihing: Scott (happily involved with Debra), and her children Jessica and Jamison: and Kim (Don) Vande Walle, and their children Megan, Amy, and Jack Vande Walle. She is further survived by her four siblings and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents and her infant brother Joey.

The memorial service for Fran will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 8, 2017, at the WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME, 537 N. Superior St, Appleton, with Rev. Debra “Dee” Sim officiating. A time of visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wichmannfargo.com.

Fran's family would like to thank Brookdale of Appleton and Care Partners for all their support and care.