Cathy Bakke's Mom

Frances Bakke
Frances Mathilda Loch was born December 1, 1920 in Bismarck, ND, the daughter of John and Clara (Bauman) Loch. Fran grew up in Alexandria and was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church. She completed her schooling in Alexandria and began working for the North American Creamery.

On June 25, 1937 Fran was united in marriage to Clifford Bakke in Sisseton, SD. The couple made their home on McKay Avenue in Alexandria. They were blessed with six children. She spent much of her time raising her children and providing for her family. At home she kept a large flower garden and also a large vegetable garden. For forty-five years Fran worked as a florist at Anderson Florist in Alexandria. In 1999 Fran and Clifford celebrated their sixty-second wedding anniversary.

Fran was a longtime member of First Lutheran Church. She also belonged to her Birthday club. Fran enjoyed visiting. Whenever someone stopped to visit they were always offered home baked desserts and coffee. In 2007 Fran moved from her home on McKay to live with her son in Alexandria. Later she moved to Clearwater Suites.

On Monday, April 11, 2011 Fran died at the age of ninety years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Bakke; son, Raymond Bakke; grandson, David Bakke; brother, Vernon Loch; and sister, Margaret Bakke. Fran is survived by her children, Duane Bakke and wife, Leta, of Alexandria, Rodney Bakke and wife, Darlene, of Alexandria, Allen Bakke and wife, DiAnn, of Alexandria, Cathy Miller and husband, Dennis of Denver, CO, Richard Bakke and wife, Catherine of East Bethel, MN; twelve grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; six great great grandchildren; and one brother, Leslie Loch and wife, Dorothy of St. Cloud, MN.

A funeral service was held on April 14, 2011 at First Lutheran Church with Rev. Marilee Bergerson and Rev. Denise Croskey officiating. Randy Morken and Karen Gladen provided music. Interment was in Evergreen Cemetery in Alexandria. Pallbearers were Fran’s grandchildren, Debra Gibson, Darren Bakke, Brian Bakke, Kevin Bakke, Jodi Holmquist, Scott Bakke, Chris Bakke, Kelly Stamer, Kacie Miller, Chaz Bakke, Cassandra Bakke and Gregory Bennett. Honorary casket bearers included Mike & Susie Merten, Larry Bakke, Diane Rymer, Anita Renstrom, Rev. Denise Croskey, Jennie Trumm, the Members of Fran’s Birthday Club and all of her great and great great grandchildren.

Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.