Frances Lenore Olin

Frances Olin, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, in Lakewood, Colorado. She was born on January 13, 1937, in Edgewater, CO, and from her earliest days, Frances radiated warmth, devotion, and vibrant energy that would touch the lives of everyone she met.

Frances’s story is one of unwavering dedication to her family and her passions. Her heart was never fuller than when she was surrounded by her children—Valerie Hightower, Beverly Pierce, and Mike Olin—whom she loved deeply and supported through every turn of life. Her pride in her family only grew as she watched her grandchildren, Daniel Gonzalez, Travis Hightower, Jordan Pierce, Jason Olin, Brett Olin, and Jamie Olin, thrive and make their mark on the world. To her great-grandchildren, Maxton Gonzalez, Oliver Lorenz, Adeline Olin, and Norah Olin, she was a steady source of love and encouragement, finding boundless joy in their laughter and new beginnings.

Frances had an exuberant zest for life. Local sports teams held a special place in her heart, and whether it was the Rockies, Broncos, Avs, or Nuggets, she cheered for them with enthusiasm. Her appreciation for music was profound; she was an avid piano player, a lover of opera, and someone who found happiness in song. Movie nights held their own magic for her, with “West Side Story” always bringing a smile to her face.

Her spirit was anchored in togetherness, and Frances treasured nothing more than being around her grandchildren, soaking up every event, be it a sports game, spelling bee, school play, or concert. Her support was ever-present, her encouragement sincere, and her delight at their achievements heartfelt.

Among her proudest accomplishments was her role in cofounding Bandbox Recording Studio in North Denver alongside her mother in the 1950s. Through this endeavor, Frances ushered in opportunities for creativity and collaboration, leaving a legacy that extended beyond her family and into the broader community.

Throughout a lifetime marked by generosity and grace, Frances was shaped by her love for others and especially by her partnership with her dear husband, Vernon Olin, whose memory she carried with her always.

Family and friends will gather to honor Frances’s memory on August 11, 2026. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7240 W. 12th Ave, Denver, CO 80214. This will be followed by a Graveside Service at 1:00 PM at Ft. Logan National Cemetery, 3698 Sheridan Boulevard, Denver, CO 80212.

As we mourn Frances’s passing, we hold tight to the gift of her love and the legacy she leaves behind in every life she touched. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who cherished her, carried forward by the laughter, music, and unwavering affection she so willingly shared.