Celebration of Life for Fran Hoerster

Fran Hoerster, a dedicated Mason County historian, a loving wife, a loving mother, and a cherished member of the community, passed away in Mason, Texas, on October 15, 2023. She was born on September 1, 1939, in Menard, Texas, to Mr. and Mrs. C.A. (Rocky and Grace Ray) Davenport, and her life was a testament to passion, dedication, and love.

Fran's journey was marked by an unwavering commitment to knowledge and community; her passion for Mason County's rich heritage was unmatched. She attended Southwest Texas State College, graduating in a remarkable three years, showcasing her intellect and determination.   Fran's life intertwined with her high school sweetheart, Harold, as they both graduated from Mason High School in 1957. Their love story truly blossomed after college when they found themselves living in San Antonio. They were married on April 8, 1961. Together, they embarked on a journey of love and companionship that would last a lifetime.

Throughout her life, Fran's heart was dedicated to service. She worked at USAA in San Antonio, where she was passionate about her work. As a substitute teacher in Dallas, she nurtured young minds, instilling a love for learning that would last a lifetime. Her compassion shone brightly in her work as a staff member at MHMR in Midland, Texas, where she tirelessly enhanced the well-being of those she served. She and Harold moved back to Mason in 2001, where they retired and became very involved in their church and community.

Her greatest joy came from volunteering at the Mason Library and the Mason County Historical Society. She was a steadfast supporter of the Mason Courthouse and Fort Mason, recognizing their historical significance and working tirelessly to maintain their legacy. Her dedication even earned her a picture of her with a big smile in the Austin Statesman Newspaper when the top of the courthouse was installed, a testament to her unwavering commitment.

Beyond her love for history and community, Fran enjoyed life's simple pleasures. She found solace and joy working in her yard, tending to her plants and trees, as well as the birds and deer that frequented her yard, and nurturing the beauty of nature. Her love for music led her to sing in her church choirs. She was a high school flutist, sharing her musical talents through playing at her church. . Her enthusiasm for her faith in God, Church, and the Methodist denomination, led her to research, write and publish a book on the 100 Years (From 1852-1952) of Methodism from, in Mason County.  After she published the book, in 2008 she was recognized at the Methodist Conference in Corpus Christ.

Fran is survived by her devoted husband, Harold Hoerster, and her two loving sons, Ken Hoerster and wife Lauren from Fredericksburg and Ric Hoerster and wife Christi from Midland. She is also remembered by her sister, Ceil Worden, and her husband Gary from Mason, and her brother, Paul Davenport, and his wife Nancy, from Boerne. Fran leaves behind five granddaughters, Kathy, Sara, Rachel, Michelle, and Emily, and two grandsons, Tony and Andrew.

Visitation with the family will be Friday, October 20, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mason Funeral Home.  A celebration of life will be held at First United Methodist Church in Mason, Texas, at 10:00 a.m. on October 21, 2023, providing an opportunity for the community to come together and remember the legacy she leaves behind. Fran will be laid to rest in the family plot at Gooch Cemetery in Mason.  Pallbearers will be Eric Worden, Daniel Worden, Mark Nash, Scott Zesch, Don Grote and Tommy Durst.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Mason County Historical Commission (Mailing Address: PO Box 1542, Mason, Texas 76856) in Fran's name, continuing her mission of preserving the history she held so dear. Or to a charity of your choice.

Fran's dedication, knowledge, and love for her community will be cherished and remembered by all who know her. May she rest in peace, her legacy forever engraved in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Fran's honor may be made to the Mason County Historical Commission.