Elsie A. Franzen, 84, of La Crosse, died Thursday, June 19, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family.
Elsie was born May 22, 1941, in Washington, Iowa, to William and Emily (Florang) Chmelar. She graduated high school and went on to school to be a beautician. On June 2, 1990, she married Donald Franzen. In retirement they lived in Haines City, Fla., before moving to Harmony, Minn., for a short time and then back to La Crosse.
Elsie enjoyed traveling, camping, playing cards, and an occasional trip to the casino.
Elsie is survived by her husband Donald, a son, Yarll (Cheryl) Prentice, daughter-in-law Debra Prentice, granddaughter Leah Prentice, stepchildren Kevin (Bertha) Franzen, Jeffrey Franzen, Karla Franzen and Michelle Franzen; many step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Kyle Prentice; a brother, Franklin Chmelar; and stepson James Burn.
Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, July 1 at Mary, Mother of the Church, La Crosse. Visitation will be an hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the St. Luke’s Catholic Cemetery, St. Lucas, Iowa. The Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel is assisting with arrangements.
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