Francis B. Wellman

Francis Bernard Wellman, aged 94, died peacefully on April 21, 2017, at Edgewood Vista Memory Care in Brainerd, MN. Son of Frank and Gertrude, Francis was born on September 4, 1922, near Humphrey, Nebraska; a sibling of 3 sisters and 4 brothers who have preceded him in death. He was a beloved husband, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle, and godfather and is survived by his loving wife, Susan, married 33 years; 3 sons, Eric (Paula) Flom of Maple Grove, MN, Terry (Lidy) Flom of Marietta, GA, and Kirk (Jenny) Flom of Brainerd, MN: 8 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren; and by many other relatives and friends. Known to many as Fritz, Fran, and Frank, he lived a passionate and varied life; from farming to real estate, hunting to golfing, gardening to bowling, fishing to dancing. Having consistently worked hard, dedicated and driven in everything he decided to put his hand to, he travelled the world and always had a story to tell. He was a gracious man who, like his family, had a strong Catholic faith and a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin. His strength, kindness, generosity, and wit will be fondly remembered and missed by all those whose lives he touched. Francis family wishes to give special thanks to the staff of Edgewood Vista and St Croix Hospice for their warmth and the attentive care they gave to Francis in this last year. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 27, 2017, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Miesville, with Father Terry Beeson officiating. Interment will follow at the parish cemetery. Visitation will be held 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services in Hastings, and will continue for one hour prior to Mass at church on Thursday morning. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Pleasant Lake Association in Hackensack, Minnesota. Arrangements are being completed by Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services of Hastings.