Frances Waitz Kalman

STEEP FALLS – Frances Waitz Kalman, 99, passed away peacefully on Sept. 22, 2024, in Steep Falls. Born on Jan. 25, 1925, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Fran was a beloved figure in her community, known for her infectious laughter and generous spirit. Fran attended Howe High School in Billerica, Mass. Her career was marked by her compassionate service in various roles including an office worker at Lowell Mills, a school cafeteria worker and school aide, and a food demonstrator, where she touched many lives with her kindness and dedication. She was an active congregant of Temple Adath Sharon, where she participated in numerous community activities and formed lasting friendships. Frances had a passion for cooking, baking, planning family parties, knitting, playing RummyQ and dominoes, and tending to her plants, activities that brought joy not only to her but also to those around her.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Gertrude Waitz; her husband of 62 years Edwin Kalman; her daughter Marci Kalman; and her siblings, Esther Schwartz, Dorothy Shapiro, Ruth Waitz, Irving Waitz, Paul Waitz, Laura Machlin and Judy Waitz.

She is survived by her brother, Morris Waitz; her daughter, Ellen (Kalman) Hedglin; son-in-law Leonard Hedglin; granddaughters, Sara and Katelyn Hedglin; and many loving nieces and nephews.

A service to honor her life will be held at Sharon Memorial Park on Thursday Sept. 26, 2024, at 12:45 p.m. Arrangements entrusted to Portland Jewish Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Chef Ann Foundation, which supports Frans’ passion for food and nurturing others.