Francine A. Rau
December 31, 1949 - September 17, 2020

Passed away tragically September 17, 2020 at the age of 70. Wife and best friend for 49 years of Steve. Devoted and loving mom of Brian and Stephanie (Andrew).

Francine was a gorgeous, vibrant, outgoing, wonderful, and loving woman. Francine loved and enjoyed her life to the fullest. In her day-to-day, she loved being outdoors working in the yard to care for her garden & the neighborhood birds. Her love extended to dogs, as she would stop & greet every dog that walked by. The dog that brought her the greatest joy was her Miniature Schnauzer, Monty (who was the best boy). 

Francine and Steve began their married life with a whirlwind adventure, living in Germany where Steve was stationed in the Army. On a whim, and without hesitation, the newly married couple would jet off to Prague, Berlin, and got to explore the world together.

Post Army - Francine dedicated her life by staying home with Brian and Steph as they were growing up, creating treasured memories and lifetime lessons. She extended her passion for learning by being on the MF Public Library board for 20 years, and as president, worked for the betterment of the entire Village of Menomonee Falls. 

After all those years of hard work, Francine enjoyed a perfect day every day in her retirement with the love of her life & best friend, Steve. They started every perfect day with coffee on the patio, then enjoyed a game of scrabble (where she would keep score to keep Steve honest). Her recent interest was knitting, and she was finding joy by working on a virtual mystery knitting project. For Francine, she always cherished her weekly yoga practice, which brought a sense of peace, comfort and helped her to be present with all those she cared for. Francine used yoga & her daily walks with Steve to help stay fit, which helped them as they explored 15 of the National Parks. 

Francine extended her whole self as the most nurturing, community – oriented woman with an amazing sense of adventure.  And above all else, Francine’s greatest love was her children; Brian & Steph. 

Visitation at FUNERAL HOME in Menomonee Falls Thursday, September 24 from 4:00 PM until the time of sharing at 5:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, UT, bestfriends.org or the Tempel Lipizzans in Old Mill Creek, IL, Tempel Lipizzans.

Visitation

Thursday, September 24, 2020

4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Schmidt & Bartelt Menomonee Falls

N84W17937 Menomonee Avenue
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
Phone: (262) 251-3630


Sharing of Memories

Thursday, September 24, 2020

5:30 PM

Schmidt & Bartelt Menomonee Falls

N84W17937 Menomonee Avenue
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
Phone: (262) 251-3630