Frances Koskela, 86, of Esko, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Interfaith Care Center in Carlton. She was born on November 28, 1939 in Cloquet, MN to Leo and Rachel (Hill) Shanda. She married Melvin Koskela on July 17, 1965. Frances worked for the Wood Conversion Company and retired from Diamond Brands after 25 years of employment. She was a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Cloquet, the four B’s and the Red Hat Society. Frances enjoyed crossword puzzles, gardening, and traveling. She also enjoyed her pets Brownie, Toby, Frenchie, Weegem and Cookie.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Rachel Shanda; and husband, Melvin Koskela.

She is survived by her brothers, Harold (Rosalie) Shanda and Donald Shanda; numerous nieces/nephews; and many relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, Frances asked that donations be made to the Carlton County Animal Rescue, 1110 Cloquet Ave PMB 144, Cloquet, MN 55720

Visitation: 10:00 AM on Monday, February 24, 2025 until the service begins at 11:00 AM at Atkins-Northland Funeral Home, 801 14th Street, Cloquet, MN 55720. A luncheon will follow the service and the burial is planned for the spring. To sign the guest book and offer an online tribute, see www.atkinsnorthlandfuneralhome.com.