Obituary of Mary (Fran) Frances Krauskopf

Mary (Fran) Frances Krauskopf passed away peacefully at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, California on December 5, 2018 after a surgery procedure.

Fran had an amazingly long and productive life spanning almost 93 years. She was born December 31, 1926 in Newton Kansas to parents Charles and Alma Hall.

Fran met Charlie Krauskopf when she was 20 at a USO dance in Wichita, Kansas.  Charlie was serving in the U.S. Navy Air Corp.  It was love at first sight and they married a few weeks later.

Together, Fran and Charlie opened four Pioneer Chicken franchises in Southern California.  Fran was known in Santa Barbara restaurant circles as the owner, with her husband, of the well-known 1129 restaurant and “Oscars” nightclub on State Street. 

Charlie passed away in 1985 after 39 years of happy marriage.

Fran had five daughters with Charlie.  She is survived by Chris (Bob), Kathy (Gary), Patty (Craig) and Lorin (Dennis). Lynda, unfortunately passed away in 1996.  Fran is also survived by grandchildren Ryan (Ashley), Dana (Sean), Haley, great-grandchildren Dylan, Jack, Tyler, Baylee, Tristan and great-great- grandson Tate.

In retirement, Fran lived at Garden Court on De La Vina Street where she became very active as resident president and treasurer, organizing many Christmas drives and cookie sales over the years.  She later moved to The Californian convalescent facility where again she was very active with daily committees and activities.

Fran could light up a room and if laughter was heard you knew she was not far away.  She was the most generous and loving person that you could ever want to meet.

Fran’s family would like to thank the staff of both Garden Court and The Californian for the exceptional care provided during her long stays in both locations.   The family also extends a special thank you to Sandy and Linda, for their friendship, love and support over the years.

Graveside services will be held on Friday December 14, 2018 at 1:30 pm at Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Fran’s name to The Californian resident council at  2225 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara CA 93105, 805-682-1355.