Frances M. Prendez Kolker

Frances Kolker, age 99, died peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2026, in Lawton, Oklahoma. She lived a long, meaningful life focused on family, faith, and strength that inspired everyone around her.

She was born on August 21, 1926, in Paint Rock, Texas, to Teodoro and Cleotilde Martinez. She grew up with strong family values that stayed with her throughout her life. In 1946, Frances married Ramon Prendez, and together they built a life in Texas and New Mexico, raising four children while working hard to support them. Their life together was defined by love, perseverance, and dedication. After Ramon passed away on December 14, 1992, in Bridgeport, Texas, Frances showed her strength by starting a new chapter in Elgin, Oklahoma, to be close to her youngest daughter, Nora. There, she continued caring for others, working as a caregiver and touching many lives with her kindness. In 1997, Frances married Carliss Kolker, and they enjoyed several years together until he passed away.

Frances was talented and fiercely independent. Over her life, she took on many roles—business owner, caregiver, seamstress, upholsterer, cook, and baker. She took pride in everything she did, always approaching her tasks with skill and care. Her hands rarely rested, and she was always dedicated to doing her best. Guided by her strong Catholic faith, Frances lived her life with conviction. She was resilient, determined, and fiercely independent, but also warm, lively, and generous. Her caring nature and genuine kindness made a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was loved and respected deeply in every community which she was a part.

Frances is survived by her sister, Juanita Cortez of Bridgeport, Texas; daughters Linda Prendez, Blanca Robinson, Nora (Prendez) Burris and husband Joe Burris; son Abel Prendez and wife Crystal; grandchildren Chelsie Prendez, Abel Prendez Jr. and wife Chelsea, Michael Robinson, Marcus Robinson, Matt Burris and wife Emily, Zitta Kulbiski and husband Andrew. She is also survived by her stepchildren: David Kolker and wife Gaylene, Charles Kolker and wife Sue, James Kolker and wife Wendy, Robert Kolker and wife Joy, Richard Kolker and wife Terrie, Deborah Schreck and husband David. Frances also had many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Frances spent the last twenty years living with Nora and Joe Burris, surrounded by family. Her life was full of quiet strength, enduring love, and deep faith. Frances Kolker will be dearly missed and always remembered by her family and everyone who knew her.

Mass for Frances will be held at St. John’s Catholic Church in Bridgeport, Texas, on May 15th at 11:00 a.m.

Hawkins Funeral Home Bridgeport

940-683-2211

www.hawkinsfuneralhome.com