Frances Schnebly

Frances H. Schnebly passed away peacefully on November 7, 2017 at her home with family and friends by her side.

She was born on January 7, 1921 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the oldest of three children born to Charles and Alice Wilson. She moved with her parents and two siblings, Chuck and Jean, to Montana and California before finally settling in Ellensburg. Her family established a dairy in this area which later became the site of Winegar's Dairy. Frances graduated from Ellensburg High School in 1939 and then attended Central Washington State College, earning a degree in Physical Education.

After teaching for a few years, she met and was courted by the love of her life, Henry Schnebly. They were married on February 23, 1947. Henry and Frances made their home in the Fairview area outside of Ellensburg. Henry was active in cattle ranching and Frances supported him every step of the way while also raising their four children. Frances was active in the community and a member of many organizations including PEO, the Kittitas County Cattlewoman's Association, Jolly Neighbors and Arvida.

She and Henry were both avid supporters of CWU athletics but their greatest joy came from supporting their grandchildren's sports endeavors. Frances also enjoyed being active and spending time with her family and friends. In her early years, she enjoyed skiing, playing volleyball, swimming, and hiking in the hills surrounding the Kittitas Valley with her special friends, Peggy Schnebly and Barb Vancil. She played tennis well into her eighties and attended many special birthday luncheons with her close friends.

Frances is survived by her children and their spouses, Fred (June), Becky (Rick Sample), Jim (Becky) and Todd (Paula); her grandchildren and their spouses, Diane (Anthony), Alice (Kenny), Grace (Si), Erin, Alex and Coleman and great-grandchildren Camdyn, Margorie, Serena, James, Marceline and Hayley. She is also survived by her sister, Jean Hayes. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Henry, her parents and her brother, Chuck Wilson.

Mom possessed the most kind and gentle spirit. She was gracious to a fault and a wonderful mother. In her later years, the promise of a chocolate milkshake and a drive around the valley elicited a "woo-hoo" and a sweet smile. The family would like to thank Frances's niece, Norma Charlton, for her dedication in providing "Tasty Tuesday" luncheons. Norma has provided support for family and friends for many years. We would also like to thank Sue Ledbetter, Michele North, Rosario Colazo and Erin Bishop for the loving care they provided for Mom.

A memorial reception will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at Steward & Williams Tribute Center in Ellensburg. Private family burial will take place at the IOOF Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Frances's honor are suggested to any local cause that benefits the betterment of our community. Steward & Williams Tribute Center has been entrusted with caring for Frances's family.