Joseph Franek

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Joseph Franek, age 82, of Cottage Grove, beloved husband, dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, June 28, 2021 while surrounded by his loving family.

Survived by devoted wife of 58 years, Patti; children, Lisa (Lee) Ferraro and Joe (Tracy); six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends. Preceded in death by daughter, Laurie Newman.

Joe was raised in Newport, Minnesota and graduated from Park High School in 1956. He soon after joined the US Army and proudly served his country until September 1963. Joe worked in mechanical maintenance and retired from NSP in 1996. He enjoyed camping, fishing, storytelling, carving walking sticks but most of all, spending time with his adored grandchildren.

Visitation 4-6:30 PM with Celebration of Life beginning at 6:30 PM, Thursday, July 15, 2021 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN, 55016. Private family interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION:  For those who would like to participate in Joe's service via livestream, you can watch the service on Thursday, July 15, 2021 starting at 6:20 PM.  It can be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of this page, and "CLICK PLAY" to begin.  Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall or complete the HeartStrings message form to let the family know you were able to watch the service.  If you are having troubles with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.