Frances M. Richards Cramer passed away Friday, Aug. 23, 2019, in Centralia, Wash., surrounded by family. She was born July 13, 1935, to Frank and Mary (Walker) Suter in Morton, Wash., and graduated from Morton High School. Frances was married to Edwin T “Chub” Richards July 17, 1953, until his death in 1976.
She worked at a family owned business, Washington Home Center in Chehalis, Wash., for many years as an accountant. Previous to that, she worked at Pat Van Eaton Chevrolet.
Spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was most important to Frances. Frances was an active member of the Washington State Bluegrass Association and used to be in charge of the kitchen during the winter "jam sessions". She cherished the many friends she met through bluegrass.She loved hosting large family gatherings for the holidays and cooking an excellent meal for all to enjoy. One of our best childhood memories was coming home from school and having fresh baked treats on the water heater for our after school snack. She was also fond of gardening and decorating for holidays. Frances was proud that her grandparents, Joseph and Rosa Suter emigrated to the United States of America from Dietwil and Gersau, Switzerland.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
Frances is survived by her brother, Dick (Rose) Suter and his family; two sons, Lawrence (Debbie) and Rodney (Judy); two daughters, Brenda Holmes (Mark) and Cheryl Richards (Jag); nine grandchildren, Tara, Kelli, Krista, Camren, Kyla, Ryan, Reed, Rob and Skyler; 16 great-grandchildren; and a large extended family.
A living celebration of life was held in Frances honor on her 84th birthday, complete with musical entertainment provided by her Washington Bluegrass family.
