Frances Felicia Mendoza

Frances (Fran) Felicia Mendoza passed away peacefully on October 14, 2024, surrounded by her loving husband, Miguel, and her family. She left behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and philanthropy. She was 88 years old, born Frances F. Plucinski on March 2, 1936 to Casimir Wypck and Andrew Plucinski in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Frances was a devout Catholic, and after high school, joined the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, where she earned her degree and teaching credential. She taught in New York and Connecticut before volunteering on a mission trip to Lima, Peru in 1967.

She met her husband, Miguel J. Perales, while on her mission. They would meet in the mission garden and talk for hours. She still has snapdragons planted to remind her of their meeting. They married in 1969 and relocated to California, where they had their daughter, Andrea, and built their life.

Frances lived in Monterey County for 56 years, serving as a beloved teacher and Vice Principal at Roosevelt Elementary and Boronda Elementary. She retired after 28 years to care full-time for her grandchildren. She was active in her retirement, as a faithful member of her Teaching Fraternity, Delta Kappa Gamma and Retired Teachers.

Frances was known by many names to her loved ones: Sister Andrew, Mrs. Mendoza, China, Nanny, Nina, Aunt Frannie, Mom, but most important to her, Grandma. She loved being a grandmother to her girls, Lauren & Nicole, who were her pride and joy.

All who knew her said that she had a kind heart, and a listening ear. She was famous for her baking, especially her Zucchini Bread. Frances always opened her home and her heart to anyone in need.

Frances is survived by her husband, Miguel, and her grandchildren, Lauren (Keith) Phillips, Nicole Polo, and their father, Tito F. Polo. As well as her grandchildren, Adriana Perales, Christian Perales, and Leah Perales.

The Celebration of Life mass will take place on Friday, November 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Madonna Del Sasso Church followed by a reception.