Frances Virginia (Gillespie) Dembicki, 96, of Topeka, passed away on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at Brewster Place.
She was born on March 27, 1921 in Topeka, KS to Kathryn (Mann) Gillespie and Bert Merrick Gillespie. She graduated from Topeka High School in 1940 and went on to attend Washburn University where she was a member of Alpha Phi Sorority.
She married Harry A. Dembicki on March 31, 1944. They were able to enjoy 64 years of marriage prior to his passing on March 1, 2008.
She is survived by a daughter, Kathryn Ann "Kitt" Proffitt and husband David; a son, Harry A. "Had" Dembicki, Jr., and his former wife Stephanie; six grandchildren: Juliana, Jennifer, Lindsey, Joshua, David, and Louise; eleven great-grandchildren: Weston, Merritt, Murphy, Annabelle, Meghan, Sophia, Halle, Isabella, Aryeh, Malachi, and Robyn.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Harry Dembicki; and a grandson, Lucas Dembicki.
Fran was active in many groups including: Alpha Phi Alumnae, Hospital Auxiliary, Jr. Social Service, Mulvane Art Center at Washburn University, and several bridge groups.
She had a happy, fulfilling life and was a gentle soul instilling in her family the love for many things for which we are grateful. A love for animals, birds, flowers, reading, travel, good food, music, art, and all things in nature. She would often remark, "Just smell those pines, feel the fresh breeze, and hear the water." She loved rushing streams and fountains.
She had many happy memories of living in the Potwin neighborhood with good friendships and many fun activities. Her family remembers many fun trips and good times had at the lake house in the Ozarks, as well as the beautiful homes they enjoyed while living in Colorado. They loved spending time with Had's family and their military friends while living in Colorado.
Fran had many friends, was a wonderful hostess, and cook. We will miss her beautiful smile and sparkling blue eyes.
The family would like to thank Brewster Place for their loving care.
Memorial contributions in her honor may be made to Grace Episcopal Cathedral, Helping Hands Humane Society, the Topeka Rescue Mission, or to Brewster Place.
The Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at the Brewster Place Chapel. The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. until service time.
Private burial will take place at Mount Hope Cemetery & Funeral Chapel at a later date.
To leave a special message for Frances's family, please visit the guestbook below.