Frances Hamm, 85

Frances Hamm (nee Hirsch) was born in Evanston, Illinois on October 27, 1931 she passed away peacefully on October 7, 2017 at the age of 85 in Redmond, Washington. There were several stops along the way, including Seattle, Monroe, Washington, Clear, Alaska and Polson.

A devoted lifelong educator and explorer she was recognized for her significant contributions as a elementary school teacher, DECA instructor, leader of the teacher’s union and school administrator. Often a trailblazer, she established the Monroe Ski School, for kids of all ages, established a business making and selling candles and became an accomplished painter.

She married Edward Hamm in 1985. When she retired, they built a house together in Polson in 1993, overlooking Flathead Lake and the Mission Mountains.

She was at her best in Polson, with Ed. They fished, traveled the world and played bridge together. Fran was active in the Episcopal Church, in PEO and as a volunteer at St. Joseph Hospital.

She is survived by her four children from her first marriage, to Robert Olson - Jim Olson, Mark Olson (Donna), Karen Lund (Ron) and John Olson (Michele), grandchildren Nick Lund and Eric Lund (Beth) and three great grand daughters.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Allegan General Hospital Foundation where a healthcare scholarship has been established in Frances Hamm’s memory. Donations can be made online by visiting www.aghfoundation.org or by mail to Allegan General Hospital Foundation, 555 Linn Street, Allegan MI 49010. Please include her name, Frances Hamm, in the memo line of your check.

There will be a celebration of Fran’s life on Friday, October 27, at 10 a.m. at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Polson.