Francis J. 'Fritz' Hertaus, 82

Francis J. “Fritz” Hertaus, age 82, of New Prague, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Thursday, August 1, 2019 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester. Fritz was born on February 7, 1937 in Wheatland Township, Rice Co., Minnesota to William F. and Elizabeth A. (Marek) Hertaus. He graduated from St. Wenceslaus Catholic School and New Prague High School and attended two years agricultural school at South Central Technical College later, after marriage. Fritz entered the US Navy shortly after high school and served for two years. He married the love of his life, Lillian J. “Bella” Mracek on April 18, 1959 at Immaculate Conception Church in Lonsdale. He farmed all his life and worked for Sheldahl and Continental Machines before he and Bella purchased a franchise for Wausau Homes, which they operated for 35 years. Fritz and Bella loved dancing and could be found on a dance floor up to three times a week. They also enjoyed their winter home in Texas for many years where they often danced daily and met many life-long friends. He was an avid member of the Polka Lovers Klub of America and was the chairman of its music fest for 20 years. He belonged to the American Legion and was a life-long member of St. Wenceslaus Church, serving on the Parish Council and Finance Board for many years. He loved playing cards with family and friends. His most cherished memories were the times spent with his family where many fun times were spent fishing, laughing and family weekends at the Pumper Palace on the Whitefish Chain.

Fritz is survived by his loving wife, Bella, of New Prague; daughters, Geri (Greg) Pumper of Rochester, Nancy (Jon) Freeman of Forest Lake; grandchildren, Maggie and Aaron Pumper and Eli Freeman; brother, Roman (Jan) Hertaus of Prior Lake; sisters-in-law, Joyce Hertaus and Diane Hertaus-Pexa both of New Prague; brother-in-law, Clarence Skluzacek of Lonsdale. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, William, Alvin, and Raymond; sisters, Lorraine Kes and Dorothy Skluzacek; brother-in-law, Tom Kes.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 9:30 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in New Prague, with Father Eugene Theisen officiating. Visitation will take place Tuesday from 4-8 PM and Wednesday morning from 7:30 – 8:45 at Bruzek Funeral Home. Burial will take place at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery where military honors will be conducted. The New Prague Veterans Honor Guard will be present at Mass. Lunch will occur after Mass at the KC Hall. bruzekfuneralhome.com

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