Frances (Danell) Steckel, age 74, passed away in Havre on February 15, 2017, following an extended illness.  Frances was born to Art and Eleanor Danell and raised in Havre with her younger brother, John.

Frances met George Steckel in 1961 in Spokane, Washington.  They married and were devoted to each other for 56 years, truly believing, "'Til death do us part."  George and Frances raised three sons in Havre. Being a wife, mother and eventually a grandmother was the greatest joy to Frances.  She loved her family with a generous spirit and loving heart.

Before marrying George, Frances found herself in a situation many teen girls do and she was sent to Spokane to a Catholic home for unwed mothers. In February of 1960, Frances delivered healthy twin boys and selflessly gave them up for adoption. The boys had a happy childhood together in Washington and recently reunited with the family, as was Frances' wish.

George and Frances spent decades loving and raising their family.  George worked for the Havre School District and Frances worked at the Great Northern Railway.  They spent lots of time attending their sons' sporting events, camping, hunting, fishing and other family activities. When their sons married and had children of their own, Frances loved nothing more than time with the grandkids.  She was always smiling, laughing and looking for another adventure with the family.

Frances was a loving, supportive and fiercely protective wife, mother and grandmother.  She took great pride in her family and her family has nothing but pride and love for her.  She will always be missed.

Frances is survived by her husband, George, and her sons Scott (Molly), Rip (Carla) and Powell (Melony) and their children and grandchildren.  Frances is also survived by her brother John Danell of Seattle.  In addition, Frances is survived by her twin boys, James and Robert McQuade and their families.

Cremation has taken place, and private family graveside services will be held at a later date.  Frances' family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations should be sent to local charities benefitting children.