Frances Teresa Alongi made her appearance in this world in Oakland, California, on April 13, 1944, where she was welcomed by her parents, Max and Jo Alongi. Her growing up years were spent in the Bay Area. When she was 15 years old, she met a young man at the skating rink. His name was Gary Hadenfeldt. Although they went to different high schools, their friendship continued to grow. After their graduations, she from El Cerrito High, they knew they belonged together, so were married on September 11, 1965. Married life began in California where they enjoyed restoring cars, camping and interacting with family, especially many nieces and nephews.

Fran and Gary moved to Vashon in 1990 and quickly became an active part of the community. In 1995 they invited Fran’s mother to live with them, which she did until her death in 2013. Gary’s death in 2002 was difficult for both of them.

For the past 20 years, Fran took care of her beloved St. John Vianney Church. She was a great asset to the parish life, always helping with anything that needed doing. She was one of the founders of the Backpack Pantry program, which she truly loved.

On January 16, 2018 Fran passed away after a lengthy illness that she concealed from those around her. Her life will be celebrated at her funeral Mass at Noon on Saturday, February 10, 2018, at St. John Vianney Church. Inurnment will be at 3:00 PM the same day at the Vashon Cemetery.

Rest in peace Dear Friend.