Frances Margaret Kolisch, 74, of Creede, Colo., passed away surrounded by loved ones on Aug. 3, 2024. She was born on July 29, 1950, and grew up in South Fork, Colo. Frances made Creede her home in 1970 and quickly became a valued member of the community.
Frances’s greatest joy in life was her family. She shared a deep and enduring love with her husband of 54 years, Karl Kolisch. The two first met at a dance at the Community Center in South Fork in 1968, and according to Karl, it was Frances's sweet and kind nature — just like her mother’s — that won his heart. Together, Karl and Frances built a beautiful life centered around their only daughter, Karly Kolisch, and their beloved grandson, Bridger Johns. Frances was a devoted wife, a caring mother, a doting Nana to Bridger, a beloved Aunt and cherished friend. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered by all who knew her.
In addition to her family, Frances was passionate about her work as a librarian at the Creede School, where she spent over three decades sharing her love of books with countless students. Her warm and welcoming spirit made the library a special place for generations of children, and her dedication to education left a lasting impact on the community.
Frances had a green thumb and loved flowers. For several summers she worked at the 4UR Ranch taking care of the flowers and hummingbird feeders. She enjoyed teasing and chatting with co-workers, kids, and guests.
Frances was known for her sense of humor, love of practical jokes, and even-tempered nature. She was always ready with a smile, a hearty laugh, and a helping hand. Her kind-heartedness knew no bounds — whether you were a stranger or a close friend, she was always willing to offer her help. Frances’s warmth and generosity made her a treasured presence in the lives of everyone she encountered.
Frances also had a soft spot in her heart for dogs. The dogs of Creede knew they could always count on her for a treat, as she was rarely without a pocketful of goodies for her furry friends.
Frances is survived by her husband, Karl Kolisch; their daughter, Karly Kolisch (Johns); their son-in-law, Ben Johns; their grandson, Bridger Johns; and her nieces, Truley and Kebra Check, as well as many other nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her siblings, Herb Check, Jackie Mckenzie, Phelan Poage, and her parents, Joseph and Dorothy Check.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 11 a.m. at Sunnyside Chapel in Creede, Colo. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Upper Rio Grande Animal Society Conour Animal Shelter in Frances's memory, continuing her love of animals, especially dogs.
Frances will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the entire Creede community. Her gentle spirit, love of life, and devotion to those she cared for will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
