Frances Lombardo Thiesenhusen

It is with gratitude we say our final “au revoir” to our favorite Sicilian queen. The beautiful, sassy Frances Lombardo Thiesenhusen has made her way home. Her family, her absolute rock and foundation, gathered with her these past weeks, showing her the way, ensuring her path was safe and letting her know she had nothing to fear. And so it was she was able to transition in peace. With her parents and sisters guiding her, her earth-bound family and friends, caregivers and hospice team provided daily care and support. Together we formed a full circle of love for Fran, something so genuine and real it was palpable to all involved. We wish to thank the wonderful second family of which we have been so fortunate to be a part at The Bay Assisted Living in Elkhart Lake. Your unwavering devotion to “Franny” and our family has provided peace of mind daily for the past 10 years and allowed for these last few weeks to be a journey of positivity, kindness and comfort. Our immense gratitude also to Dr. Nicholas Barnes and Dr. Jason Brooks and their staff for their wonderful care and friendship – your dedication to Fran’s needs and ours will forever be appreciated.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, George Thiesenhusen, her daughter Georgene Iverson and son Thomas Thiesenhusen, her parents Tom and Rose Lombardo, her sisters Mary, Dorothy, Katy and Chris, Frances is survived by her sons, Glenn and Craig Thiesenhusen, her son-in-law, Rick Iverson, her daughters, Paula Galten and Pam Mueller, and their families, including 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Born and raised in Milwaukee and grounded in her Sicilian heritage, Fran’s family was her greatest love – her parents, grandparents, sisters, aunts and uncles formed her foundational understanding of what matters most in this life. Her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews deepened that perspective. A devoted mother, wife, friend and teacher, Fran was an avid reader and dedicated more than a quarter century teaching others to read in the Waukesha School District as an aide. An accomplished seamstress Fran created many special moments and memories for others sharing her skills and craft. In support of her husband and veterans across our nation, Fran co-founded the first VFW Auxilliary Chapter in Waukesha, and in later years, she and George built their cherished cabin in northern Wisconsin, a place so filled with laughter and fun their energy resonates still each time we walk through the porch door. She loved a good polka, the color yellow, the smell of a campfire, a brandy old fashioned (with olives, of course!), sunshine and cardinals, the Sound of Music, fresh octopus salad and butter pecan ice cream.

We invite you to join us for a celebration of her life at St. Francis of Assisi, 1937 N. Vel R. Phillips Avenue in Milwaukee, October 6, 2026. Visitation will begin at 11:30am with services at 12 noon and a gathering with light refreshments immediately after in the church hall. Yellow attire is encouraged; please bring your favorite memory or photo to share.

At 97 years young, Fran lived a wonderful life, embracing the good times and the harder times, with a sense of determination and humor. Always a bit of a mischief maker, Fran lived with a twinkle in her eye and a dance in her step. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local literacy program or library and join us as we raise a glass to our lovely Frances P.

PS… Fran did not have a middle name, but she wanted one. So, she assigned herself a P ;)

The Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service www.olsonfuneralhome.info has been entrusted with Frances’s arrangements. Our sincere appreciation for their support, kindness and consideration of our family.