Dana Frantz

Washington- Dana Michele Frantz, 43, of Washington passed away at 5:33 PM on Friday, April 10, 2009 at her mother’s home in Washington, where she was surrounded by her family. She was born August 18, 1965 in Peoria, IL to Marvin and Jane (Myers) Frantz. Surviving are her father Marv (Marty) Frantz of East Peoria, her mother Jane (Art) Smith of Washington; brother Tim (Mary) Frantz of Toluca, IL; sister by choice, Sandy (Chris) Hern of Washington; two nieces Alyson and Miranda Frantz of Toluca; nephew Noah Hern of Washington; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents. Dana was a 1983 graduate of East Peoria Community High School. She was a Field Inspector for the Greater Peoria Sanitary District for 11 years, last working June 28, 2007. She started with the Washington Rescue Squad as an EMT-I, and then during her 17 years with the department, obtained a Fire Fighter Level 2 status. She served as Captain of the Fire Department and as President of its Board. She also volunteered her time at various sporting and community events on behalf of the Fire Department. Dana played softball throughout high school and later played for Illinois Central College in East Peoria. She coached 12U and 14U Washington Cobras girl’s softball traveling teams for several years. She also was a very active player in women’s and coed softball in NTRA, Washington Park District, and the Fondulac Park District. She enjoyed riding her motorcycle, was a big Tennessee Volunteers, Cardinal Baseball, Washington Redskins, and NASCAR fan. Most of all, Dana enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, coordinating many vacations/reunions for her family over the years. A Celebration of Dana’s life will be on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 5 PM at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. Pastor Mary Arnold will officiate. At Dana’s request, she would like everyone to wear their favorite sports attire. A visitation will be held prior to the Celebration of Life at the funeral home from 2-5 PM on Tuesday. A Ride of Remembrance past the Washington Fire Department will follow the service. The family then invites everyone to join them at the Fire Department for a meal and fellowship. Cremation rites will be accorded following the services. Memorials in Dana’s name may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Center or the Washington Fire Department. Dana’s memorial website is available at www.deitersfuneralhome.com where condolences may also be sent to the family.

Dana Frantz

August 18, 1965 - April 10, 2009