Frances Hitzel

Frances was born March 6, 1937 in Newcastle, Wyoming to Albert and Hazel (Fry).

She graduated high school from Newcastle High and attended Black Hills State College where she met her future husband, Joe Hitzel. They married and raised their three children on the family farm in Spearfish, South Dakota.

Frances finished her college degree in 1972 and went on to teach school before working for McNenny Fish Hatchery for several years.

In 1988, she found her calling as the director of the Women Against Violence Shelter in Rapid City, South Dakota for almost a decade.

She went back to teaching in Tyler, Texas helping at-risk teens earn their GEDs through the AmeriCorps program.

Frances retired in Nebraska to be near her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Frances was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Julie Moser, and beloved grandson, Douglas Joe Hitzel.

She is survived by her son Doug (Barb) Hitzel, daughter Kim Hitzel, eight grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren.

Frances lived a life defined by compassion, resilience, and devotion to her family, friends, and community. She touched countless lives through her teaching and advocacy.

Memorial donations can be made in her name to your local women’s shelter.