Frances W. "Fran" Mason

Frances W. "Fran" Mason, 81, of Dover passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital.

She was born on May 21, 1942 in Dover to the late Russell and Helen Alesiano Martin.  Fran was also preceded in death by her grandson, Logan Mason.

Throughout her life, Fran was known for her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. She co-founded The Two of Us Crafts alongside her best friend, Becky Hixenbaugh.  Fran's proudest accomplishments centered around her dedication to her community and faith. She was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, playing key roles in the Bereavement Committee and serving as chairman of the Family Life Committee. Her commitment to her Italian heritage shone through as a member of the Tuscarawas County Italian American Festival Committee and her induction into the Ohio Festival Events Association Hall of Fame.

Fran will be remembered for her love of family. She cherished spending time with her husband of almost 63 years, Richard "Dick" Mason, whom she married on June 3, 1961. Fran is survived by her children, Rick (Julie) Mason of Dover, Melinda Mason (Kevin Alexander), Melissa Burkhart both of New Philadelphia; her brother David Julian Martin (Hunghai Kevin Su) of Chicago; grandchildren Victoria (Steve) Kotheimer, Madison (Rocky) Moore, Paige (Ryan) Dugan, Russell (Jess) Mason, John (Ashley) Smith, Alex (Cortney) Smith; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Fran's joyful spirit extended to her pastimes which included playing bocce with friends and avidly supporting the Cleveland Guardians. She also found peace in tending to her flowers.   Those who had the privilege of knowing Fran will remember her as a woman who exuded warmth and kindness wherever she went. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved her.

A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 15th starting at 10:30 am in the St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Jimmy Hatfield and Fr. William Arnold officiating.  Interment will be at the St. Joseph Calvary Cemetery at Dover.  The family will be greeting friends in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover on Tuesday from 5:00 to 8:00 pm with Christian Wake services starting at 7:45.  Those wishing to express their fondest memories of Fran may do so by visiting the online obituaries link on the funeral home's website.

Because of health and allergy reasons, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church at 613 N Tuscarawas Ave, Dover, OH 44622.