Frances L. Preston, aka Fran, Grandma and Mama Preston, aged 76 years young passed away peacefully in her sleep at Froedert Medical College on Friday, January 16, 2026.
Fran was born in Ortonville, Minnesota on November 9, 1949 to Shirley and “Mickey” Heffernan. After high school, Fran worked various jobs and attended night school to receive her associates degree. Her hard work, determination, and fierce personality (IYKYK) helped her to become a Vice President of Reinsurance with Kemper Insurance. She was graced to have a son, Russell prior to her marriage to Jerome “Jerry” Preston on April 3, 1976. In 1979, Robyn (Preston) Tower was born on her grandmother Shirley’s birthday July 14th.
Those that knew her, understood she was extremely family oriented and very headstrong. A combination of personality, wicked intelligence and a 1980’s lifestyle caught her off guard with the first family heart attack at the age of 40. This resulted in a decline in her health and eventual qualification of disability. While converting to a stay at home mom, her interests in her hobbies really developed. She was an avid fiber artist in the field of crochet, sewing, painting ceramics, diamond painting and eventual enjoyment of expansion to her family.
Her daughter, Robyn (Preston) Tower married David Tower in 2005, added the first grand-dog Tori and two grandchildren: Kyle and Alexis. With life’s cycles, Fran was preceded to Heaven by her father, Clarence “Mickey Heffernan, mother Shirley, son Russell and husband Jerry. She is survived by her daughter Robyn (Preston)Tower, husband David, grandchildren Kyle and Alexis and second grand-dog Phoebe. Extended family of brother Wallace “Skip” Heffernan, older sister Susan (Heffernan) Mielke and her husband “Roc” Mielke, and younger sister Cathy (Heffernan) Buck and husband Albert “Al” and niece and nephews all share in the condolences of Fran’s passing.
No service will be held at this time as her wishes were to be cremated and ashes spread to join her family. Instead, a celebration of life will be held during summer TBD. Special Thank you to our friends and family that helped with Fran’s care while in Wisconsin and Florida. Patrick, Megan and Kristen, I appreciate all the help and friendship you gave to Fran - your efforts were greatly appreciated.