PORTLAND – Frances A. (Littlehale) Waisanen, 77, of Reed Street, passed away Saturday, Sept. 22, at Maine Medical Center after a long illness.

Frances was born Sept. 11, 1930 in North Paris, the daughter of William and Gladys (Allen) Littlehale. She grew up in North Paris and attended local schools.

She married Vaino E. Waisanen on July 17, 1949, and they moved to Westbrook shortly afterward. Frances and Eddie enjoyed going to their camp in Greenwood, which incidentally was a one room schoolhouse that they had both attended.

Along with a working career that included Soule Glass, Pratt Abbott, and most recently, Portland Dry Cleaners, Frances was an accomplished seamstress that provided much joy to many weddings with her work. Another talent that Frances bestowed upon others was her wonderful pastries that she shared with so many.

Frances was also very involved with her church, Prides Corner Congregational, where she served as a deacon. She enjoyed working at the holiday fairs, where she and Eddie would spend countless hours preparing gifts.

Frances also enjoyed spending time with her daughter, Donna LeClair and her husband, Mark, and her three grandchildren, Heath, Reece, and Courtney.

She is survived by her husband, Vaino; her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren; and nieces, nephews, and other family members.

She was predeceased by two brothers, Lawrence and Harrison Littlehale.

Frances’ family would like to extend a warm thanks to the staff at Maine Medical Center S.C.U. for their high level of care and compassion to Frances and her family.