Frances Kilker

In Loving Memory of Frances Marie Kilker

Frances Marie Kilker passed away in Oakdale, California, on October 16, 2025, at the age of

90. She was born in San Francisco, California, on October 7, 1935.

A graduate of Star of The See Girls Catholic High School, Frances was a woman of many

passions. Her love for horses was a defining part of her life; she was deeply involved in training,

breeding, and showing them. She turned this passion into a career, owning and operating her

own retail horse equipment business.

Frances also had a dedicated creative side. She enjoyed making crafts, including cards,

handicrafts, and horse tack. In her quieter moments, she loved watching or reading old western

stories and keeping her mind sharp with puzzles, Sudoku, and games of Yahtzee. She

generously gave her time to the community as a volunteer tutor at St. Stanislaus Elementary

School.

Frances was known for her life-long commitment to the church. She was a practicing Catholic

throughout her life and will be recognized for her contributions in an upcoming mass.

Above all, Frances was devoted to her family. She was fondly remembered as a hands-on

grandmother who was deeply involved in her grandsons’ formative years.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Lilian Kilker, and her siblings, Carol Spiller,

Elizabeth Van Wambeke, and James Kilker.

Frances leaves behind a loving family who will miss her dearly. She is survived by:

● Her children, Steve Nicolai of Modesto, CA, and Diane Ainger of Sonora, CA.

● Her grandchildren, Steven Nicolai of Reno, NV, and Logan Ainger of Sonora, CA.

● Her great-grandchild, Makenna Nicolai of Reno, NV.

She will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her many talents, and the love she shared with

her family