Francis Michael Prucha

Francis Michael Prucha, age 81, passed away peacefully at his home in Berthoud, Colorado on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. Known as Fran or Frank by his family and friends, he was born on December 29, 1941 in Menominee, Michigan where he lived until 1959, when his family moved to Colorado. Fran lived a life rich in service, faith, and family.

Fran proudly served our nation in the Navy, and his time stationed in Alaska was among his most treasured memories. His love of his country was deeply rooted and unwavering. After gaining experience as a machinist in the Navy, Fran worked as a tool and die maker for IBM for 30 years, at which time he retired so he could have time for his own projects and help friends with their construction and mechanical projects. In addition to constantly keeping himself busy, Fran was a faithful member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Longmont, Colorado.

Fran married JoAnn Landolt in 1973 and they had five children: Steven (Lynn), Marie (Robert), Sue (TJ), Alan (Tillia), and Theresa (Kurt). Fran is the proud Grandpa to eight grandchildren: MaryElla, Albert, Aaron, Fiona, Joshua, Sydney, Samuel, and Samantha. Fran is survived by his loving mother Marian, and his sisters Patty and Margie. Fran was preceded in death by his wife JoAnn and his father Albert.

A mechanical genius, Fran loved to spend his free time in his workshop, tinkering and building. From intricate models to practical home solutions, he had a knack for understanding how things worked and creating with his hands. His creations were a testament to his intelligence, creativity, and attention to detail. The largest and most rewarding project Fran undertook was designing and building his own family home that he could call his own for the last 56 years.

In addition to his hands-on hobbies, Fran had a deep interest in genealogy. Tracing back his roots and understanding his family history brought him immense pleasure. His tireless research illuminated the paths his ancestors took, connecting past, present, and future in a continuous thread of shared history.

A visitation for Fran will be held Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at 4:00 PM at the Howe Mortuary Chapel, 439 Coffman Street, Longmont, Colorado 80501. A rosary will follow at 5:00 PM. A Mass of Christian burial will occur Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 323 Collyer Street, Longmont, Colorado 80501. A graveside committal will follow Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the Longmont Mountain View Cemetery, 620 11th Avenue, Longmont, Colorado 80501. A reception will follow the interment Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 12:00 PM at Howe Mortuary Reception Room, 439 Coffman Street, Longmont, Colorado 80501.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion https://mylegion.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Donate#legion-org

Services are entrusted to Howe Mortuary & Crematory of Longmont, Colorado.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com for the Prucha family.