Mr. Francis E. Hart

November 10, 1924 - January 26, 2012

Francis E. Hart, 87, of Gilmore City went home to be with our Lord on Thursday, January 26, 2012, at Trinity Regional Hospital in Fort Dodge, IA. Visitation will be Sunday, January 29th at Harris Funeral Home in Gilmore City, IA from 2-4 PM with Christian vigil service to follow at 4 PM. Christian burial mass will be Monday, January 30th at St. John's Catholic Church of Gilmore City at 11:00 AM, with entombment in St. John's Cemetery. Francis was born on November 10, 1924, to Thomas and Margaret (Schall) Hart in Pocahontas County. He spent his childhood years on the family farm. He started school at Sacred Heart School, in Pocahontas and after moving to Gilmore City, graduated from Gilmore City High School in 1943. Following High School, he was drafted in the military; he entered the Army and served in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. He returned home to Gilmore City, to farm for his widowed mother. Francis then met Patricia Koepke and they married in 1950 and continued operating the family farm. He was employed by Humboldt County Secondary Roads Maintenance crew. He eventually retired and moved into Gilmore City where he remained. Francis was a lifetime member of Saint John's Catholic Church of Gilmore City, IA. His hobbies included dressing as Santa Claus for children, assisting with the Boy Scouts and helping young people. He was a trustee for Weaver Township, Commander of Post 239 of Gilmore City, and fianance officer of the 8th District American Legion. Francis will be loved and missed by family and friends for his gentle nature and kindness to others. Francis was preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Margaret Hart, wife Patricia Hart, brothers Vincent and Edward Hart and sister Elaine Wempe, as well as brothers and sister in-laws. He is survived by his sisters Rachel Umthun of Eagle Grove, Jeanette Arndt of Cherokee and his foster daughter, Mary Swalve of Humboldt as well as many nieces, nephews, friends and family. In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorial contributions. online condolences to www.harrisfuneralservices.com