Frances Marian Doyel, 88, 18-year resident of Whidbey Island, died June 5, 2003 at Home Place Special Care Center in Oak Harbor.

Mrs. Doyel was born in Pueblo, Colo., on Feb. 3, 1915, to Ephram Merritt and Flora Blanche (Miller) Merritt. Frances was married to Arthur Tipton Doyel, and they resided in Denver. He preceded her in death in November 1964.

She was employed as an office manager for the Lower Tule River Irrigation District in Colorado for many years. Frances moved to Freeland in 1985, where she was a member of First Baptist Church. She was active in her church and was organist there. She also enjoyed crafts. In 1998 she moved to Oak Harbor.

Mrs. Doyel is survived by her four children, Joseph Lloyd Spiker and wife Cheryl of Oak Harbor, Curtis Lee Spiker of Blountstown, Fla., Stanley Louis Doyel of Oroville, Calif. and Ruth Ann Rayford and husband Frank of Bakersfield, Calif.; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; also, a sister, Lola MacMinn of Freeland. In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by a brother, Ephram Merritt, Jr., and by a sister, Margaret Merritt.

In keeping with her wishes, no service will be held. Burial will take place at Hillcrest Cemetery in Porterville, Calif. Arrangements under direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.