Frances Ann Schmitt Zago

July 28, 1957, West Vancouver, BC

October 12, 2021, North Vancouver, BC

Frances, Matteo and Dante’s wonderful mother, the love of Luciano’s life, died peacefully at home surrounded by the love of her family.

Frances lived a life full of curiosity. Her extensive library was her passion and a testament to her wide range of interests. From philosophy, economics, history, politics, pottery and art, to literature, photography, fashion and of course architecture, her books set the stage for lifelong engagement with her beloved family and friends, for whom she will always be an inspiration. One always left a conversation with Frances having learned something new.

Frances relished the dynamism of cities and the wonder of architectural space, but found her solace in the forest and by the ocean. Her corgis, Arwen and Viggo, were her constant companions on the trails of the North Shore and the beaches of Tofino and Hornby Island.

Frances attained degrees in Art History and Architecture at the University of British Columbia and a graduate degree in Architecture from Harvard University. She was also a studio instructor at the School of Architecture at UBC.

Her built work includes a series of homes that stretch between Vancouver and Whistler, and she was co-designer for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics Arch. She enjoyed close relationships with her clients which led to the creation of beautiful and highly personal homes. Her love of ‘tectonic expression’ resonates in her designs.

The family thanks Dr Sasha Smiljanic and all the caring nurses at the LGH Chemotherapy and Medical Clinic and the doctors and nurses on the LGH Palliative Team.

In lieu of flowers, donations to BC Cancer would be appreciated.

The family will gather privately after cremation.

“Say yes to fun things. Fun things are just as important as serious things.”