Frances Louise Coleman

Frances Louise Coleman died after a brief illness on April 9, 2010 surrounded by her loving family in Pueblo. Frances was born December 4, 1934 in Woodland, Illinois to Ralph & Verla Kruse. She moved to Saguache with her family in 1950 & graduated in 1952 from Saguache High School. After high school she entered nurses training at CU and graduated in 1956 with a Bachelors of Science degree in Nursing. Returning to Saguache thereafter and worked in the Monte Vista Hospital and various Doctors offices. Frances married James W. Coleman in 1960. They ranched together and raised two children, Cindy and Tim. She continued to work as a RN as well as on the ranch doing whatever needed to be done. Frances was also the school nurse in Saguache for 17 years, continuing after this as the athletic trainer until her death. During her full active life she helped cure many ills, mended many broken bones and broken hearts, as well as delivering many babies throughout the San Luis Valley. She was a Girl Scout leader for many years, and helped with her children’s 4-H market beef & various other projects. As a dedicated Saguache County Museum board member & volunteer, she worked many enjoyable hours putting together Dr. Shipley’s medical display as well as others to preserve the heritage and history of Saguache families. The annual Museum opening day Parade was one of her favorite community service activates. Working on the ranch with Jim, she helped brand, feed, move cattle, and saved many a sick calf. She had what it took to be a great ranch woman thus making good cowboys green with envy! Frances was an excellent cook. She was always around in the “snack wagon” and providing snacks or a hot meal to the ranch and hay crews. She was a tireless worker who had great respect for people, animals & especially the land that provided for her life. Frances is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Jim; her children, Cindy (Scott) Lenn, of Pueblo, and Tim (Teddi) Coleman of Saguache; her grandchildren, Jenifer Murphy of Pueblo, Alan Murphy MM3, US Navy, Heather (Anthony) Salaz, and Calvin Coleman of Saguache; great grandson, Tye Salaz; brother, Charles Kruse and nephew Wayne of Texas; step grandchildren, Nate (Rachel) Lenn, Josh (Angela) Lenn, and Phylicia Lenn; Seven step great grandchildren, special family Paul (Judy) Coleman, as well as many loving nieces, nephews and friends. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Friday April 16, 2010 at 11:00 am at Mountain Valley School gymnasium in Saguache. Following the service, the family will receive friends at the Saguache community building. In lieu of flowers she requests donations be made to the Saguache County Museum. Online condolences at davismortuary.com