Kulpmont– Frances M. Balanda, 82, passed away unexpectedly, on Sunday, October 6, 2024.

Born in Shamokin on January 10, 1942, Fran was the daughter of Francis and Julia (Horvath) Nagar. She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom, sister-in-law, Jaye Balanda, brother-in-law, John Balanda, and brother-in-law, Bob Platt.

Fran attended Wilson Grade School in Kulpmont and Kulpmont High School. She worked at both the Kulpmont and Mount Carmel garment factories. Additionally, Fran attended classes, trained, and graduated from the Empire Beauty School. Later, she joined the custodial staff at the Mount Carmel Elementary School for several years. In her retirement, Fran enjoyed working at Knoebels Amusement Resort assisting with catering at the Oasis Café.

Fran was a member of the Church of the Holy Angels in Kulpmont. She married Thomas F. Balanda of Shamokin on August 8, 1964.

Fran enjoyed volunteering at the parish BINGO and the annual parish picnic, frying potato cakes. She was a very good cook and spent time making spaghetti sauces, wedding soup, apple cakes, Christmas cookies, and working with her husband, Tom, making delicious pumpkin rolls. She loved to shop and enjoyed watching QVC.

Fran was most content when she was busy working, spending time with her family, and playing the slot machines at a variety of casinos. She made delicious holiday meals and absolutely loved decorating her home for each holiday throughout the year.

Her greatest joy was raising her two sons,  and she was very proud of their achievements. She loved spending time with her grandchildren. Being able to be in her own home brought her much fulfillment.

Frances is survived by sons, Thomas, Jr. and wife, Michele of York, and Mark and wife, Lisa of Hershey; sister, Patricia Bingaman; brother, John (Jack) Nagar; sisters-in-law, Lois Platt and Mary Yordy, and brother-in-law, Jim; grandchildren, Alexis, Ryan, and Marisa; nieces, Bethann, Margie, Tammy, and Annette; and nephew, Chad.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, October 14, 2024, at 11 a.m. with Father Andrew Stahmer officiating in the Church of the Holy Angels, Kulpmont. Burial will follow in Mount Carmel Cemetery, Mt. Carmel Twp. Visitation will be held in the Church on Monday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Church of the Holy Angels, 855 Scott St., Kulpmont, PA 17834. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.cjlucasfuneralhome.com