Frances Salpeter

Frances Salpeter nee Arvey
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Frances “Fran” Joan Salpeter on November 25th, 2024, after 94 years filled with love, community, and adventure. Fran was the beloved wife of the late Robert “Bob” W. Salpeter, with whom she shared 57 wonderful years of marriage, and was a devoted mother, grandmother, aunt and cherished friend to many. Born in Chicago, Illinois to Reuben Arvey and Gladys Becker Arvey, Fran was raised alongside her late brother, Edward “Eddie” Arvey.

In 1951, Fran married the love of her life, Bob, and graduated from Northwestern University. Together, they raised three daughters: Maxine “Terry” Salpeter, Susan Salpeter, and Sally Salpeter Smith. Fran was a proud and devoted grandmother to her two granddaughters, Allison Hermine Smith and Jordan Michelle Smith, who were the light of her life. She began her professional journey in early childhood education, where she was a primary school teacher. She later pursued her true passion for fashion, embarking on a long and memorable career with Neiman Marcus. Her impeccable style, extensive brooch collection, and eye for design made her not only a staple of the store, but also a go-to stylist for her many friends.

Fran will be remembered for her sense of humor, her loyal, lifelong friendships and her adoration for the Chicago Cubs. She volunteered for hospice and Meals on Wheels.

A true staple of the Highland Park, Illinois community, Fran was recognized all around the city and is affectionately referred to by her granddaughters as the “most famous woman in Highland Park”.

Her family treasures the countless memories they shared with her and the enduring lessons in friendship, loyalty and community that will continue to inspire her loved ones.

Fran will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Service Tuesday 11AM at Makom Solel Lakeside, 1301 Clavey Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035. Private interment was held at Shalom Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Parkinson’s Disease Association, 2100 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, IL 60026, www.apdaparkinson.org, Lurie Children’s Hospital, 225 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, www.luriechildrens.org or Congregation Makom Solel Lakeside, 1301 Clavey Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035, www.mymakom.org. To attend the funeral live stream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com.