Francis G. “Fritz” Pumper, 91

Francis G. “Fritz” Pumper, age 91, of New Prague, died peacefully with his family at his side at Mala Strana Health and Rehabilitation Center on Thursday, October 10, 2024.  Fritz was born on February 20, 1933, in Lonsdale, to Frank and Rose (Malecha) Pumper.  He graduated from New Prague High School and served in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict, serving stateside as a mechanic making sure the planes and jets needed were in stellar condition for the war effort.  Fritz married Delores “Babe” Kajer on May 22, 1954, in New Prague, where they would work and raise their family of ten children.  Fritz worked as a miller, first for Webster Co-Op Feed Mill and then Conagra, retiring at age 62.  In retirement, he enjoyed numerous “fun” jobs, feeding his work ethic and his outgoing personality!

 Fritz was extremely proud of his involvement with the American Legion and earning a plaque for loyal service of 22 years.  He furthered his training in the air force with a lifelong interest and knowledge about planes, enjoyed visiting museums and sharing his knowledge with whomever was willing to listen!  Likewise, he was a voracious reader of anything that had to do with history, particularly involving world wars.  He was a wealth of information and enjoyed many a backyard conversation with his neighbors.  His yard was a source of much pride for Fritz and he loved the work involved in making sure he had that perfect “green lawn”.  There was nothing better than time in the backyard bird-watching and visiting.  Fritz and Babe looked forward every year to their annual month spent at their son’s home in Virginia right after Labor Day. It was here that they would eagerly attend every Nascar race, proud members of the Dale Earnhardt fan club!  Fritz’s love of people, his willingness to engage in ready conversation, and his upbeat personality will be missed by all who knew him.

 Fritz is survived by his children, David (Theresa) Pumper of New Prague, Susie (David) McCollister of New Prague, Jane (Michael) Bisek of New Prague, Diane (Rick) Giesen of New Prague, Julie (Robert) Oeffling of Milaca, Mary (Tim) Carlson of New Market, Mark (Stacey) Pumper of Aylett, VA, Sara (Mark) Parriott of Webster, Neil (Julie) Pumper of New Prague, Nathan (Regina) Pumper of Le Center; 23 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his wife, Babe, on November 28, 2015; grandson, Matthew McCollister; brother, LeRoy Pumper; sister, Gladys Sandberg.

 Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, October 18, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Eugene Theisen officiating.  Visitation will take place Thursday, the 17 from 4-7 p.m. and Friday morning from 7:30-9:30 at Bruzek Funeral Home.  Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery where military honors will be provided by the New Prague Area Veterans Honor Guard.  Lunch will follow at the Legion Clubroom.  bruzekfuneralhome.com

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