Mary Jo (Sidener) Frank

Mary Jo Frank, age 94, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born on May 11, 1929, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Mervin Sidener and Myrtle (Blegeberg) Sidener, Mary Jo was a long-time resident of Noblesville, Indiana. She grew up with her brother, Gary Sidener of Chicago, Illinois.

From a young age, Mary Jo displayed a remarkable talent for creativity. Her exceptional skills as a seamstress and her natural flair for design were evident in her stunning window displays at Goldwaters Department Store in Phoenix, Arizona. Her unique creativity was perhaps most memorably displayed in her creation of a snowman made entirely of tumbleweeds. She was also loved and well known for making garments and home textiles for family and friends. She even taught other women how to make their own lingerie around Indiana in the 1960s, long before Victoria’s Secret was known.

Mary Jo married her beloved husband, Robert (Bob) W. Frank from Powers Lake, North Dakota, on June 10, 1950. Their marriage was a testament to their deep love and mutual respect and support. Bob was an integral part of her life until his passing in 2006. Together, they shared a life filled with partnership and resilience. They were perpetual entrepreneurs together, owning two pharmacies in North Dakota as well the Bar & Stool Emporium and the Gift Shop at the Radisson Hotel at Keystone at the Crossing.

Mary Jo's memory is cherished by her loving family: her son, Robert C. Frank, and his wife Janice; her daughter, Susan Hathaway; her grandchildren, Kristen Wilson-Frank (Christina), Eric Frank (Nichole), Scott Frank (Amanda), Stephanie Hathaway (Paul), and Justin Hathaway (Sabel); and her five great-grandchildren, Lucas, Camden, Emmaline, Grace, and Daxton, who brought her immense joy.

Renowned for her exuberant laugh and joyous spirit, Mary Jo was an involved mother and a doting grandmother and great-grandmother. Her presence was a source of happiness and warmth, deeply cherished by all who knew her. She loved spending time with her family and friends, creating a legacy of unforgettable memories. Her children recollect that she was always giving; her time and energy as well as things that she felt would brighten someone’s day. Her grandchildren recall her taking them to everything; gymnastics, tap dance, piano lessons, swim lessons, soccer, baseball, etc; if she could, she would.

A celebration of Mary Jo's life will be held in late spring or early summer; Mary Jo didn’t like the cold. The family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in lieu of flowers.

Mary Jo's life, woven with threads of creativity, love, and resilience, will continue to inspire and comfort those who were fortunate to know her. Her spirit, defined by joy, laughter, and strength, will forever be a guiding light to her family and friends.