Francis Odenthal, age 80, of Heidleberg, died Tuesday night, April 30th at his home.  Francis was born on March 8, 1933 in Heidelberg, the son of John Jacob & Veronica M. (Blaschko) Odenthal.  He graduated from Montgomery High School and married Geraldine A. Kaufenberg on June 11, 1955 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in New Market.  Fran was a lifelong resident of Heidelberg where he farmed.  For 32 years he was also an I.T. Supervisor for Cenex.  He was an honorary life member of the 3rd degree Knights of Columbus and was a member and former president of the Heidelberg Athletic Association.  Fran loved farming, family, friends, antique tractors, polka music, and card playing.

Francis is survived by his wife, Geri of Heidelberg; Children, Gary (& Susan) Odenthal of New Prague, Laurie (& Lyle) Highland of Henderson, Bob (& Frances) Odenthal of Inver Grove; Grandchildren, Jessie (& Eric) Hammerberg, Jacob (& Lyza) Odenthal, Jenna Odenthal (& Fiance, Bradley Heimer), Lindsay, Lauren, & Logan Highland, Dani & AJ Odenthal; Great-grandchildren, Evan & Charlotte Hammerberg, Connor & Ellarie Odenthal; Mother-in-Law, Marcella Kaufenberg of New Prague; Sisters-in-Law, Millie Odenthal of Heidelberg, Carol Odenthal of Heidelberg; Brother-in-Law, Bob (& JoAnne) Smishek of Mpls.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place Friday, May 3, 2013 at 10 AM at St. Scholastica Catholic Church in Heidelberg with Father Dave Barrett officiating and Father Kevin Clinton concelebrating.  Visitation will be held Thursday, May 2, 2013 at Bruzek Funeral Home from 4 – 8 PM and on Friday morning from 7:30 – 9:30 AM.  Burial will occur after mass at St. Scholastica Cemetery in Heidelberg.  Lunch will follow at the Park Ballroom in New Prague.