Francine M. Vitale (nee Clair), age 83 of Eastlake, passed away December 30th, 2025 at West Medical Center with her family by her side. She was born January 14th, 1942 in Alliance, Ohio to the late Frank and Mary Clair.
Fran retired from Mentor Municipal Court after 25 years of service.
Fran was an active member and volunteer at St. John Vianney Church. She also volunteered at the Eastlake Kiwanis along side her late husband John. She loved cooking, baking and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Fran was the loving wife and best friend of 48 years to the late John N. Vitale; beloved mother of John F. (Michelle) Vitale, and Joseph A. Vitale; cherished grandmother of John Philip (Nicole) Vitale, Jacob Vitale (Kaitlin Denihan), Vincent Vitale, Alexis Vitale (Nate Cooper-fiancé) and Cara Vitale; great grandmother of Rey and John N. Vitale; dearest sister of William (Judy) Clair; aunt to many nieces and nephews; longtime companion of Robert Himes.
The Vitale family will receive family and friends from 10:00 – 11:00 AM Friday, January 2nd, 2026 at St. John Vianney, 7575 Bellflower Rd., Mentor in the gathering area. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 AM Friday at the church. Burial at Mentor Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Jeff Monreal Funeral Home of Painesville.
Reader interactions
11 Replies to “Francine M. Vitale (nee Clair)”
John I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. Both she and your wonderful father were a special part of my life and I will always be grateful for them. May she rest in peace reunited with her one true love and Nani and Papa.
Francine was always a inspiration in our lives. She loved her family and all her friends. She was loved.
I am so sorry to hear of Mrs. V’s passing. She was always sweet to me growing up. My deepest condolences to the whole family.
Francine was a loved and treasured friend. I will miss her always.
To the Vitale family
So very sorry for your loss
Your mom was always so pleasant !
She will be missed.
May she Rest in Peace
With Sympathy,
Ed, Joanne& Kristine Maikut
My husband, Judge Richard A. Swain, always respected and admired Fran’s dedication to the Mentor Municipal Court. My deepest sympathy.
Our condolences to your family. God bless you all.
Michele and Charde LaPinta
Addio, Francine. All of us who took the Gilroy bus to the Browns games or who attended the parties in the summer prepping for the season opener will surely miss you even as we still think of John. Personally, every time work took me to the Mentor City Hall or to Alliance I thought of you both. I’m sure you’re happy to be reunited; God bless you both.
I just found out today of her passing.. I’m so very sorry, she was a wonderful woman & will be missed..
We are so sorry to hear of Francine passing. She was always caring and loved getting together at the Artino family picnics with everyone !
We are so sorry for your loss ! The Bittner family!!!
Thank you for submitting your comment. Your comment will be reviewed in the next 24 - 48 hours. Once approved, it will be added to the condolences below the obituary.