Frances Mae Kruse

Frances Mae Kruse, née Shopin, born February 4, 1939 at Fort Lewis, Washington to Ella Wood and Joseph Shopin. The oldest of three children, Fran grew up in Federal Way with her sister, Katherine “Kaye” Olson, and her brother, Michael Shopin. Fran was the beloved mother of David Shopin, Michael (April) Allman, Ron Paulson, Robin (Paris) Collins, and Robert (Elsie) Hicks.

She had six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and seven nieces and nephews as well as many friends that were considered family. Fran worked as a bus driver for the Bethel School District for 39 years. She loved gardening, cooking, traveling, fishing, bowling, shopping, attending and volunteering for her church, and spending time with her family. 

Fran was smart, strong ,and particularly good at seeing the good in others. She was dearly loved by those who knew her. She passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 and was preceded in death by her parents, and her two children David and Ron. She will be deeply missed. Fran’s Memorial Service will be held Saturday September 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Lutheran Church of  Christ the King, 1710 85th St E, Tacoma, WA 98445. There will be a luncheon and fellowship to follow at the church.