Howard "Frenchy" Owen Elias

Howard Owen Frenchy Elias, 87, of Byron, MN passed away on July 9, 2015 at his home surrounded by his family. Howard was born July 15, 1927 in Wanamingo, MN to Irvin and Lela (Hart) Elias. He was a veteran of the US Army, proudly serving his country during WWII. He worked and traveled with the Pipeline and then settled in the Rochester, Byron area. On June 6, 1946 in Wichita Falls, TX, Howard married Lorraine Cox who preceded him in death on June 16, 1974. Howard later married Brianne Calvert on September 10, 1983 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. Howard was a member of the American Legion and the Laborers Union. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, bicycle, camping and people watching. Howard was a hardworking, strong willed man with a great sense of humor. Above all, Howard loved spending time with his family. Howard is survived by his children, Christine (Chip) Hendrickson of Mason City, IA, Keith (Debbie) Elias of Byron, MN, Deanna Elias of Rochester, MN, Katie (Christopher) Luhmann of Rochester, MN, Mickey (Holly) Elias of Byron, MN, Tana Elias (Andrew Clarkowski) of Fitchburg, WI, Lilly Wolf-Elias of Byron, MN; 12 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; and his special friend and former wife, Brianne Burke of Byron, MN. Howard was preceded in death by his first wife, Lorraine; infant twins, Connie and Craig; brothers, Wesley and Ervin June Elias and sisters, Rachel Louck and Lillian Blake. Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, July 15, 2015 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester. Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until the time of the service. Chaplain Bernard Butch Lewellin will be officiating with interment at Oakwood Cemetery. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com