FRANCIS A. MANHART

June 12, 1925 - August 16, 2016

Francis A. Manhart, 91, died peacefully Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at Gundersen Health System in LaCrosse. He was born June 12, 1925 in Caledonia, the son of Henry and Stella (Hosch) Manhart. He married Dorothy Feltz, July 1, 1950 at St. Stanislaus Church in Winona. He worked for the Trane Company in La Crosse for 34 years. Francis served in the U. S. Army during WWII. He was an active member of the VFW Post 3833 serving many years as quartermaster. He was also an active member of American Legion Post 191. Francis loved gardening and making wine. The produce from his garden was enjoyed by his family, shared with neighbors, and sold to a local grocer. The grapes for making wine came from his own vines. Francis is survived by his wife Dorothy, and his seven children, Steven, Nancy (Tom) Prest, Jim, Bruce, Mary (Gary) Geurts, Patty (Keith) Nedegaard, and Michael (Sherry) Manhart; 14 grandchildren; and 24 great grandchildren. Francis was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Leland, Gerald, Henry, Donald; his sister, Marie; one grandchild; and one great grandchild. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 A.M., Saturday, August 20, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Caledonia, with Father Matt Fasnacht officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30 A.M. until the time of the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Mary's Church, School, or a charity of your choice.