Frani Karen Bankert

Frani Bankert died on October 16, 2014 after a long battle with ovarian cancer. She was born April 15, 1951 in Atlantic City, NJ to Selma and Earl Troy. She attended Atlantic City High School and went on to the University of Maryland where she graduated with honors, Phi Beta Kappa with a degree in Sociology and Psychology. After college she married the love of her life, Kim, and after three years of living in New Jersey they took a road trip to Alaska and ended up in Bozeman in 1976 where they remain to this day. They both love the outdoors: hiking, camping, backpacking, rafting, and skiing. She retired in 2010 after a long career as an IT Specialist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Frani is survived by: her husband, Kim; mother Selma Troy of Doylestown, PA; brother Stan (Deva) Troy of New Hope, PA; brother-in-law Bill (Patti) Bankert of Winchester, VA; sister-in-law Bonnie (Bob) Taylor of Ft. Meyers, FL; Winnie (Eddie) Gaupp of Egg Harbor, NJ; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father Earl Troy and her Irish Setters Clancy and Maggie. A very special thank you goes out to all of Frani’s neighbors and friends, both locally and those on the east coast, west coast, and in the south. All their support and love made the end much easier. Also, thank you’s go to the staff at the Billings Clinic Cancer Center, the Cancer Support Community in Bozeman, the Bozeman Deaconess Cancer Center, and the truly marvelous nurses at the Bozeman Cancer Infusion Center. Their warmth and compassionate care is top notch. And lastly, to the most wonderful husband and caregiver, Kim, until we meet again somewhere. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any of the organizations listed above. There will be no funeral service, but a celebration of Frani’s life will be held at a later date. Details to follow.