Florence Fannin Bales

Florence Fannin Bales, 92, died Tuesday, September 16th in Austin, Texas. Florence was born August 22, 1922 in San Angelo, Texas. After graduation from high school, Florence moved to Austin to attend the University of Texas. She enjoyed all the aspects of college life; pledging Zeta Tau Alpha and living in the sorority house. After receiving her degree in Home Economics, Florence returned to San Angelo and met the love of her life, William L. (Bill) Bales. Bill was a highly decorated OSS officer and pilot, stationed in San Angelo after returning from service in WWII. They married in 1946 and began an exciting and adventurous lifetime journey. They moved to Chihuahua, Mexico, and built a hunting ranch, which included a mining and cattle operation. In 1950, they returned to San Angelo, when Bill was recalled to duty to train pilots for the Korean War. In 1954 they started a family; the couple had two sons, Bill and Steve. They settled in Austin in 1959, where they began one of many entrepreneur businesses. In 1981, Florence and Bill retired to their exotic game ranch in Lampasas, Texas. Bill preceded Florence in death in 2012, after 66 years of marriage. Florence was known for her sweet demeanor and constant support of her husband and sons. She was an excellent cook and an accomplished baker. She was known for making and decorating fabulous birthday and wedding cakes for her family and close friends. Florence loved the outdoors; joining Bill on many hunting trips and snowmobiling throughout the mountains of Colorado. Her other passions included sewing and playing bridge. Florence is survived by her sons, William F. Bales and wife Judy, and Steve Bales and wife Vicki; grandchildren, Ryan Bales and wife Romney, Garrett Bales and wife Alana, and Dusti Gillis and husband Tyler; and great-grandchildren Valle Bales and Bryce Bales. The family would like to thank the caring staff and owners of Lou’s House for the wonderful care and love she received there in the last months of her life.