Mary Rosetta Frances Cline Hoeffliger

Mary Rosetta Frances Cline Hoeffliger, 88, passed from this life on Dec. 6, 2013, in Sonoma.

She was born June 4, 1925 in Wadena, Iowa to Lawrence and Ima Everetts Cline. Growing up on a farm, Mary went to school in West Union, Iowa.  She went to work at the age of 16 with a sister and friends, traveling to Waterloo, Iowa – supporting the war effort at Chamberlain’s Manufacturing. She worked there each summer throughout World War II.  After graduating from West Union High School in 1943, she continued working making military uniforms in Waterloo.

Moving to San Francisco in 1946, she changed her name to “Mary Frances,” and married Herbert Kray. In 1955, she moved to Sonoma with her three children, Karen, Donald and Steven, working as a cook at two local cafes. Divorced in 1963, Mary Frances met and re-married Fred Hoeffliger in 1965, soon moving to Bell, and later Fall Creek, Ore.

Returning to Sonoma in 1974, Mary Frances began working at Sonoma State Hospital (Sonoma Developmental Center), as a custodian.  At the age of 50, she took courses through the Santa Rosa Junior College psychiatric technician program, and became a certified psychiatric technician, working until retirement.

Always helping people and family in need, Mary Frances cared for children for many years and volunteered throughout Sonoma Valley, serving, cooking or baking.  Though short in stature, Mary Frances could keep up with giants.  She fought a long battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Active until recently, Mary Frances was a member of First Baptist Church, Sonoma Valley Grange, Women of the Moose, the Sons of Italy, and many other local organizations.

Mary is predeceased by her parents; and siblings, Margie, James, John and Betty; her children, infant Richard, Donald and Karen; and dear friend, Gerald Lee.

She is survived by her son, Steven (Patty) Kray, of Petaluma; six grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.

Friends are invited to attend a celebration of life at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 13, 2013, at the First Baptist Church, 542 First St. E., Sonoma, CA 95476. Inurnment will immediately follow at Valley Cemetery, 425 E. MacArthur St., Sonoma, CA 95476. Donations in Mary Frances’ name may be made to First Baptist Church, Sonoma, or any other charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Duggan’s Mission Chapel. Inquiries can be made to them at 996-3655 or by visiting their website at www.duggansmissionchapel.com.