FRANCIS G. KARNICK

Francis Gayle Karnick, age 80, Menomonie, WI, passed away at Neighbors of Dunn County, on Sunday, May 21st. 

He was born March 7th, 1937 in Hastings, MN, the son of Frank and Lois Karnick. After spending his grade school years in Vermillion, MN, he graduated from Hastings High School in Hastings, MN. He then served his country in the Air Force from 1955 to 1961. He married the love of his life, Charol Fenner, in 1960. After living in St. Paul, MN and Menomonie, WI, they moved to Boyceville, WI, where they called home for nearly 45 years. Fran was an active member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 4-H Leader, Booster Club President and was elected to the local town board. He loved to deer hunt and was famous for his “stew” he made each deer season. Fran was employed by Sunshine Biscuits, Inc. for 31 years. After retirement, he took up running as a hobby, and ran two marathons at the age of 60. He was a dedicated family man who loved to spend time with his wife, four boys, daughters-in-law and grandchildren. His four boys were involved in many sports for 15 years, and he rarely missed a game. Fran was an active member of Cedarbrook Church.

He is survived by his wife, Charol, Menomonie, WI; by four sons, Kent (Janet) Karnick of Richfield, MN, Drew (Julie) Karnick of Blaine, MN, Mark (Lori) Karnick of Amery, WI and Joel (Shayna) Karnick of Park Falls, WI. He is also survived by one brother David (Colleen) Karnick of Hastings, MN and one sister Patricia (Lawrence) Wagner of Hastings, MN. He was the proud Grandpa to his seven grandchildren; David Karnick and Matthew Karnick (Drew and Julie), Kyle and Cory Karnick (Mark and Lori), Abha and Manika Karnick (Kent and Janet), and Blake Karnick (Joel and Shayna).

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation has taken place.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, May 31st 11 a.m. at Cedarbrook Church in Menomonie, WI with Associate Pastor Kyle Gunderson officiating. Visitation Tuesday, May 30th 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Cedarbrook Church and Wednesday, May 31st from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Military services will be held at a later date at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com