Frances M. Piekarski

Frances M. "Fran" (Harvat) Piekarski, 82, of North Washington Township, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 6, 2026, surrounded by family. Born in Plum, Frances was the beloved daughter of the late Henry and Mary Harvat. She graduated from Plum High School and went on to become a licensed beautician. Alongside her husband, she was part owner of Stanford Home Center, where she enjoyed working with customers, expanding the lawn and garden department, and being part of the community. Fran will be remembered most for her love of family. Her grandchildren were the joy of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She also found happiness in gardening, reading, traveling, and playing cards with friends, always appreciating the simple pleasures and meaningful connections in life. A woman of strong faith, Fran was a member of Our Lady of Joy R. C. Church in Plum and formerly a devoted member of St. James Roman Catholic Church in Apollo, where she served as a member and past president of the Rosary Confraternity. Fran was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 46 years, Carl J. Piekarski, as well as her parents, Henry and Mary Harvat. She is survived by her loving children, Angela Clark, Susie Piekarski-Reese, and Darin Piekarski; and by her cherished grandchildren, Gregory Clark, Morgan Lukes, Noah Clark, Brody Reese, and Max Reese, all of whom brought her great pride (a few headaches) and happiness in her life. She also had a niece, nephew, sister-in-law, and many cousins who loved her as well. Family and friends will be received from 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at MAURICE KNEE, LTD, Funeral Home, 7663 Saltsburg Road, Plum, PA 15239. Visitation will continue from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday morning, March 14, 2026, followed by a procession to the church for a Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Joy R. C. Church of Holy Family Parish, 2000 O'Block Road, Plum, PA 15239. Fran will be privately interred with immediate family at Greenwood Memorial Park Mausoleum in Lower Burrell at a later time. When asked about memorial contributions, Frances simply said she preferred flowers, a reflection of the beauty she appreciated throughout her life. She winked and said, "Call Kandi at Holiday Florist." Fran will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.