Frances Anna (Kunda) Elmer

Frances Anna (Kunda) Elmer, age 87, the cherished matriarch of the Elmer family, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025. Frances’s life was one filled with love, laughter, and strength.

Born in Wibaux, Montana, on March 29, 1938, to Dominika (Della) Lorbiecki Kunda and John Paul Kunda, Frances grew up with a strong sense of family, faith, and determination that would define her life.

After graduating from Sacred Heart Catholic High School, at 18 years old, set out on her own adventure, moving from Montana to Phoenix, Arizona with only 25 cents in her pocket. It was there she met Ben Ray Elmer, whom she was married to for 64 years. They spent most of their adult life in the Plano, Texas area where Frances pursued a career at Texas Instruments. After retiring she and Ben enjoyed traveling and spending time with family. Together they built a beautiful life raising five independent children who carry on her legacy today: Jeff Elmer, Phil Elmer (Pam), Cindi Stevens (Len), Chris Elmer (Krista), and Jennifer Elmer (David Strosnider).

Her pride and joy extended to her eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored, each holding a special place in her heart.

Frances will be remembered for her unwavering faith, and love of family. She was resilient in the face of challenges including beating breast cancer in her 60’s. She was a devoted friend, never shied away from saying what was on her mind and loved playing card and board games. She had a legendary talent for bridge with an uncanny ability to cross trump and wipe people out. She loved volunteering and being involved with her church, crafting, needlework, old movies, and discussing politics.

Frances was preceded in death by her husband Ben, her parents, her brothers Joseph (Margaret), Dominic (Mary), and Lawrence, and her sisters Marie Buck (John), Theresa Kuntz (Sam), and Pauline Kenneway (Earl). She is survived by her brother Charles (Diane) and her sister, Dolores Steiner (Martin).

A mass celebrating Frances’ life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Prior to the mass a rosary service will be held at 10:30 a.m. If you wish to join the mass via webcast, please visit:

If desired and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Frances’ honor to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.