Frances Vander Weide

Frances Marie (Cranfill) VanderWeide, born April 5, 1937, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025. 

Raised on a farm in Knightstown, Indiana, Frances lived a life defined by her deep care for the people she loved. From an early age she worked on the farm milking cows, driving a tractor, and feeding chickens. After graduating high school in 1955 she began working at Kraft foods in Shirley, Indiana. April 5, 1968, she married Cornelius VanderWeide Jr. and moved to Jenison, Michigan. She then worked at the Butterball Farms butter and packaging plant. She took a short leave after daughter, Deborah, was born in 1971 and retired in 1994.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Vernice and Viola Cranfill; her beloved husband, Cornelius (Casey) VanderWeide Jr.; and her brother, Ira Cranfill.

Frances is survived by her daughter, Deb, son-in-law, Paul, grandson, Alexander, and granddaughter, Samantha, who were the great joys of her life. She also leaves behind her cat, Thomas Jefferson, her constant companion in later years.

A lover of history and storytelling, Frances was happiest when spending time with her family and sharing memories.

She will be deeply missed and appreciated for the strength and care she brought to every moment, and her legacy lives on in the love she passed down.

A private family service will be held.