Sophia Marie Francka Griesbaum of Springfield, MO. passed away April 2nd 2024. She was 95 years old. She was born the daughter of Benjamin & Mary Ann Francka in Bolivar, MO. She grew up on a farm, graduated from Bolivar High School, and taught in a one-room schoolhouse. Sophia met Edward Griesbaum and the two were married in 1951.

MSU is where she received her degree and a Master's in Education. She continued teaching in Springfield, kindergarten, and then first grade at Freemont and Bingham.

She and Ed became members of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where she was active in many ways throughout the years.

She was a life member of the Missouri State Teachers Association and a member of the Retired Teachers Association. She contributed as a member of Alpha Delta Kappa (ADK), an honorary organization of educators, and Reading is Fundamental (RIF). She volunteered for the Red Cross, the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks and also at the election polls. Later, she volunteered by reading books & stories to the 1st grade classes at church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Benjamin and Bernard Francka, sister, Elizabeth Kressig, and granddaughter-in-law, Miranda Griesbaum.

Sophia is survived by her husband of 73 years, Edward Griesbaum; sister-in-law, Barbara Francka; son Chris Griesbaum and wife Jill; son Ted Griesbaum and wife Raquel, and daughter Catherine Griesbaum and husband Rob. Grandchildren are Gabriel Griesbaum and wife Angela and their children Gregg and Gerald; Isaac Griesbaum; Drew Hull and wife Paige; and Julie Martinez and husband Jeff and daughter Hazel. Sophia is also survived by a large, local family.

In lieu of sending flowers, the family asks that you please support St. Wenceslaus Cemetery. Send to Jane Otradevec 708 West Division, Bolivar, MO. 65613