It is with profoundly heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother and wife Françoise Colette Torija Rossman on August 7, 2024. Fran was born on March 3, 1943 in Bar-Le-Duc, France to Emmanuel and Genevieve Torija. As a young girl she had a passion for the arts; She loved music and was proficient in classical ballet! Her skills as a portraitist and a cartographer came in very handy for a better grade while she was helping us children with our homework. After graduating from high school, she went on to pursue a career as an international flight attendant, however, before completing the course, she was told, while her commitment was sterling, her petite stature did not meet the requirements at that time. She met her husband, Austin ‘Gene’ Rossman in France, while he was stationed there with the Army, and they then married on November 21, 1963. Fran is the mother of four daughters and one son, she has 15 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. Known for her impeccable home making talents she was a woman who wore many hats. For anyone who knew mom, knew she could bake, sauté and sauce, like no one’s business. She was also wonderful at canning and gardening all the while chasing after five hooligans. Fran also held several jobs outside of the home, continuing to work well into her 70s; She loved spending time with family and friends, while camping in the beautiful outdoors. She adored nature and the animal kingdom all her life, and her fur babies were her children after raising children.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Gene Rossman. Daughters, Isabelle (Tracy) Ussery, Austin & Gabrielle; Wendy (Jim) Giles, Lacey, Amanda & Brianna; Deanne (Gustavo) Gonzalez, Ashley, Marissa, Adrian, Alex & Myiah; Dianne Rossman (fiancé Anthony Scott), Whitney & Justin; and Son Carey (Athena) Rossman, Chelsea & Alyiah. Fran was preceded in death by her grandson Brandon Rossman.

Nous t’aimons Mama~ XOXO

 In lieu of flowers or gifts, we encourage you to share any special memories of mom you may have or donate to your local animal rescue in memory of her love of animals.