February 13, 1932 – June 30, 2024
Frances, Mary Benz, CSJ, a passionate proponent of educating the young, giving dignity to each neighbor and respect to the elderly, died on June 30, 2024, at Regions Hospital in St. Paul.
She was born Alice Veronica Benz in St. Paul to Frank and Verena Mary (Winter) Benz, and entered the community of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in 1950. Her education includes a bachelor of arts in English and education from the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul (1960), a master of arts in education and American history (1965), and a master of arts in education administration (1983), both from St. Thomas College in St. Paul.
She was first missioned to teach at St. Luke, St. Vincent and St. Pascal in St. Paul, and St. Mary in LeCenter, Minnesota. While earning her master’s, she served as principal at St. Columba, St. Pascal and Highland Catholic in St. Paul. From 1964 to 68, she spent her summer months as director of Mt. Airy Housing Project, working with divorced women and teens. In addition, she generously used her gifts and talents to serve on the Inner Urban Catholic Coalition, chair the Archdiocese Deanery, serve on the Board at Derham Hall and St. Mary’s Health Clinic, the Archdiocesan School Board, and Archdiocesan Coalition for Ministries, the Block Home Nursing Board, the St. Paul Mayor’s Committee on Aging and Disabilities, and the United Way. From 1990-95, she was co-director of Sisters Care, a home health care program that provided services to the elderly. Even in retirement she joyously volunteered at Bethany Convent, St. Mary’s Health Clinic, St. Joseph’s Hospital and the Red Cross.
Frances Mary was without guile, did hard things in simple ways, had a wonderfully welcoming, selfless spirit, and took the time to empower and encourage students, teachers, family and friends alike. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Frances Mary is preceded in death by her parents; brothers Bill (Susan) and James Benz. She is survived by sister-in-law Mary and Vanette Benz; five nieces and nephews, 12 grandnieces and nephews; good friend Fr. Greg Skrypek; the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and Consociates.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., in Our Lady of the Presentation Chapel, 1884 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul, with burial following at Resurrection Cemetery in Mendota Heights.
Memorials are preferred to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet Retirement Fund.
Dear Frances Mary, rest in love and peace
Rest in peace, sister