Frances Margaret Chmiel

Frances M. (Bales) Chmiel, 76, passed away peacefully in her home, June 20, 2023, after a courageous battle with Dementia.

Born December 10, 1946 in Santa Cruz, CA, she was the daughter of the late Harold Bales and Frances (Dodson) Kusner. Her brother, John Mark Bales, also preceded her in death.

On December 3, 1983, Frances married the love of her life, Andrew Leo Chmiel, who survives her. To their union, they were blessed with one son, Israel (married to Lainie) Chmiel of Berthoud, CO. She is also survived by a sister, Sylvia Bales of Hillsdale, WY.

Frances studied to be a concert pianist at the University of California – Berkeley. After her first marriage, she returned to Berkely to obtain her a master’s degree in Entomology, and she wrote for scientific journals. She obtained a second master’s degree in Buddhist Studies and Art, and taught and developed children’s curriculum. She worked with special needs children in public schools, and taught a Down Syndrome child to make changes that would allow him the opportunity to work at the school store. Later in life, she became a Rabbi, and was a Principal at the Orthodox School; and she taught at reform and renewal congregations. Most recently, she authored and published the book, “The Holy Ghost Record: My Mom’s Utterances.” She was a devoted and loving wife and mother and friend to many. She will be dearly missed.

A graveside funeral will be held on Thursday, June 22, at 10 a.m. at the Hebrew Orthodox Cemetery, Mishawaka, with Rabbi Michael Friedland officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Caring Cove Hospice, 3120 N. Home St., Mishawaka, IN 46545, or to Sinai Synagogue, 1102 E. LaSalle Ave. South Bend, IN 46617.