M. Francine Zupp

Marie Francine Zupp of Norwich passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 2, 2018. Francine was 69 years old.

Born on April 17, 1949, in Bishopton, Quebec, Canada, Francine was the daughter of Hubert and Helene (Mercier) Grenier. In her youth, she moved with her family to the United States, settling in Carmel, NY. At age 15, Francine discovered what would become her passion and profession -- hairdressing. After graduating from Carmel High School, she earned her hairdressing certification and began her almost 50-year career as a hairdresser and stylist. Prior to her death, Francine owned and operated Hairaphenalia Salon on Mitchell Street, just behind the Norwich YMCA. From the beginning she enjoyed her craft. She cherished her employees and the many, many clients that she came to know over the years. She was loved by so many of those who came in contact with her during her career as a stylist and her impact on them will last long into the future.

On November 3, 1974, in Oneonta, NY, Francine married her beloved husband, Peter Zupp. Peter first met Francine in Carmel during a shuffleboard tournament; and soon after, they found themselves motorcycling and traveling to many places together. Francine’s first love was traveling; and she started a small travel business named Broadway Bound, which fueled their passion for travel. For over 43 years of marriage, their travels would expand to destinations on four continents and various exotic islands all over the world.

In addition to her work, she was also known as an activist. She fought for what she believed in by marching with her sister in protests. She also loved being active with her family, skiing, snowmobiling, motorcycling, bicycling, and scuba diving. Not only was Francine creative as a stylist, but she enjoyed decorating, designing, sewing, and playing cards.

Francine is survived by her husband, Peter; her dearly beloved children, Christopher Zupp and his wife, Ashley, of Manchester, CT, and Alexandra Muserallo and her husband, Anthony, of Morrow, OH; her grandchildren, Inara and Thorin Zupp, of Manchester; and her siblings, Robert Grenier, of Stormville, N.Y., Denis Grenier and his wife, Susan, of Norwich, NY, Michelle Budzienski and her husband, John, of Gilford, NY, and Danielle Hesse, of Plano, TX; along with many nieces and nephews.

To honor Francine’s wishes, there will be no funeral services or calling hours. A notification in the Evening Sun will be published at a later date to announce the celebration of Francine’s life.

Please consider a contribution in Francine’s memory to the Norwich Fire Department EMT, 31 East Main St., Norwich, NY 13815.