Frances “Fran” Steinmetz, 87
June 11, 1937 – April 13, 2025
With heavy hearts and a deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Frances “Fran” Steinmetz on April 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on June 11, 1937, in Newark, New Jersey, to Joseph and Elsie “Ennie” Schupp, Fran grew up with a strong sense of family and tradition. She later found love and lifelong partnership with Donald “Don” Steinmetz, whom she married in Maplewood, New Jersey. Together for 45 years, they raised a family rooted in the values of hard work and togetherness.
Fran spent most of her life in Union, New Jersey, where she created a welcoming home filled with family and friends sharing meals, laughter, and tradition. She was a woman of many talents and boundless energy—a passionate cook and entertainer, avid photographer, and lifelong traveler. Her travels took her to Europe many times, where she enjoyed all of the best of those countries, sharing good food, wine and especially time with family and friends. Her annual New Year’s Day brunch was shared by many over several decades where the table was filled with wonderful food and of course Don’s famous Bloody Marys.

Her generous spirit found expression in the countless blankets she knitted for family, friends, and those in need. An entrepreneur at heart, Fran poured her dedication into her fabric business, Flourishes Inc., in New York City. She successfully ran the company until the age of 80—a remarkable testament to her drive, creativity, and independence.
Proud of her heritage, Fran remained deeply involved in her community. She was a member of the Schwaebishcher Saengerbund for many years, including several as president, where she celebrated her German roots. Her heart always held a special place for Bettenhausen, Germany, in the Black Forest area of Germany—her family’s homeland—which she visited often to reconnect with her beloved cousins, aunts, uncles and many, many relatives.

Fran is survived by her devoted daughters, Cathy Bendall and Lisa Arends, and her honorary sons, Jeff Pearse and Mark Simonetti as well as 2 nephews and a niece. Her legacy lives on through her beloved grandchildren: Samantha Wojas and husband Adrian, Justin Bendall, Caitlin Bendall, Brianna Arends, and Jessica Arends. One of her greatest joys was becoming “Feffy” to her great-grandson, Greyson Wojas, and she was joyfully awaiting the arrival of a great-granddaughter this Summer.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Don, her mother Ennie, and her father Joseph.

Fran’s unwavering love and zest for life left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She was always ready to share a glass of wine, a good meal or play a mean game of Rummikub. She leaves behind a legacy of creativity, resilience, and a family who will carry her memory in their hearts forevermore.