Urgent Aid for Beloved Artist Chris Francee

#UrgentAidForBelovedArtistChrisFrancee

Hi there!

My name is Lynn Gehlbach, and I am starting this GoFundMe for my good friend, Chris Francee. Chris is 75 years old and developmentally disabled. Many of you may know Chris for his prolific and inspired artwork and for his years working for the Auburn museums. Unfortunately, over the years, he has been taken advantage of by one entity or another. He is now in a state of emergency, fighting to hold on to the little that remains of what his father left him in his Trust.

Chris has recently been told to leave the home he loves, and which his father left him in his Trust, and now, he is facing yet another battle. We desperately need to find someone with a kind heart to represent him in court and someone to help care for him — but this requires money Chris simply doesn’t have.

We’ve searched high and low for a pro bono attorney but have had no luck. On Friday, February 21st, Chris had a court hearing but his voice was not heard. It’s heartbreaking. Chris even had to represent himself in court just last week — he couldn’t hear well and didn’t know what to say. The court failed him that day.

The judge did agree that Chris needs a conservator in addition to a person to represent him, so another hearing has been scheduled. However, without an attorney, Chris is at risk of losing even more. Time is of the essence.

Tragedy aside, besides the fact that Chris has a huge heart and an endearing smile, there’s something truly special about Chris — he is an artist, well-known in our small town of Auburn. His paintings and ceramics have touched many, and his talent shines brightly, even in these dark times. Many of you may also recognize him from the countless hours of volunteering in the Auburn museums. The portrait of Chris, attached to this GoFundMe was painted by the incredible Frank Ordaz, a well known, inspiring artist who is known for his moving portraits, beautiful landscapes (many you'll recognize from here in Auburn and surrounding areas), and has also worked on several motion pictures. Frank, like many people here in Auburn, recognizes Chris’s beautiful, artistic spirit.

Please, if you can, help us raise the funds needed to secure legal representation for Chris and support his care. Every dollar brings us closer to justice and stability for him. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and for standing by Chris in his time of need.

With gratitude,

Lynn Gehlbach and Team Chris

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