Frances K. Piche

Frances Karen Currier Piche passed away on April 30th, after a prolonged illness. 

Born in Berlin to Phyllis and Elwood Currier, Fran was the “baby” of 8 siblings: Celeste, Shirley, Colleen, Elwood “Buzz”, Durwood, Sheila (aka “Shishi”, her best friend), Stewart, and Vinnie, who would tell you she always got her way.

Fran married Bob Piche in 1969. They raised two daughters, Bethanie and Heather, and made their home in Bethlehem, NH. Fran was a homebody and made the most welcoming homes. Strawberry Hill was a “home” to many friends, who became family. They could count on good conversation and coffee (not necessarily good) at the kitchen table or curled up on the sofa in front of the fireplace. She opened her home to all, and it was commonplace for nieces and nephews to spend a week, a summer, or longer. 

Fran worked in advertising- radio, and eventually opened ConservTech advertising in Littleton, with partner Sterling Nickless. Their proudest achievement was landing the Red Sox account.  Later, she worked for Salmon Press before retiring.

If you knew Fran, you know she was never shy about sharing her opinions, whether you wanted them or not. Some sayings that will live on in family lore (don’t be offended): “Jesus wept!”, “I’ve had the RADISH!”, and “I don’t give a rat’s ass!” After a series of strokes left her mostly unable to communicate verbally, one could almost read these sayings on Fran’s face, along with an eye-roll. 

Most important to Fran was family: her in-laws Lincoln and Jess, and her grandchildren: Robert, Meredith, Amir, Tristan, and Ethan. “Mammy” felt blessed to spend time with great-grandchildren, Blair, Shepherd and Sullivan, children of Robbie and wife Brianna. Fran was known for her largesse and gift-giving. Gifting wasn’t limited to family; Fran would give the shirt off her back to friends, the handyman, and even people she just met. Often, she would give until she was herself left without. 

Beth, Heather, and their families thank the staff at Coos Nursing Home, who gave Fran loving care when living in Heather’s home became difficult.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you “pay it forward”, as Fran would have. Do something kind for someone in need. Fran’s wishes were for no formal service. A celebration of life will be held at a later date so that all the people she loved can be there.