Francis (Fritz) Barta, 91

Francis (Fritz) Barta, 91, died on April 20th, 2020 at Central Health Care in Le Center, Minnesota, his family at his side.

He was born on September 27th, 1928 to Frank and Mary Barta (Malecha) on their family farm East of Lonsdale, MN; attending and graduating from school there as well.

Fritz proudly served his nation as a radio operator in the Korean conflict, attaining the rank of Corporal. Military service was important to Fritz and his seven brothers, with all eight of them serving our Nation in the Armed forces, ranging from World War II to Vietnam. He often mentioned the tremendous stress that undoubtedly placed on his mother, Grandma Mary. After being released from active duty, he married the love of his life, Dorothy Ann Vasko on October 30th, 1952 at Saint Wenceslaus Church in New Prague. He then began his lifelong career, raising and milking Holstein dairy cows. His care and attention to detail to his profession was well known and recognized in the local community. That same attention to detail and care was passed on to his family.

Although Fritz certainly was all about business when it came to farming, he also knew how to have a good time. Fishing was always a favorite, and he and Dorothy were able to retire and live for many years on Pearl Lake near Detroit Lakes, and spent many good years there with family and friends. Many good years were also spent in Florida, spending winters near daughter Julie and family. Along with traveling, card playing with family and friends was also a favorite activity. Many can attest to his aggressive style of Euchre playing, often times going with what many would consider an extremely weak hand, however it seemed to work out for him more often than not. He also always had a song in his heart, and loved to sing.

Fritz also provided us with countless other examples of a life well led, how to be a hardworking, contributing member of society.

Fritz is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy (Vasko); Children, Ron of New York, Cathy (Ken) Haase of Blue Earth, Duane (LaNae) of Belle Plaine, Julie (Randy) Soland of Florida, and Keith (DeLynn) of New Prague. He was also blessed with nine Grandchildren and eleven Great-Grandchildren. Fritz is survived by his siblings, Joe (Joan) of North Dakota, Tom (Loraine) of Jordan, Don of Brooklyn Center, Al (Lynn) of California and Mary (Larry) Trinka of Lonsdale; sister-in-laws, Kathy Barta of Richfield and Mary Barta of Oregon. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Hank, Stan, Rose, Dick, and Helen.

Services will be private with immediate family. bruzekfuneralhome.com