Leroy George Prince

Rochester - Leroy G. Prince, 87 died on Friday, September 21, 2012 at Madonna Towers in Rochester. Leroy was born near the Twin Cities on November 4, 1924 to Joseph and Aurelia (Krueger) Prince.He grew up in Rochester and worked as a kid at a family owned root beer stand.Leroy also worked at Gates Orchard where he learned how to graft, prune, and harvest fruit crops.After service to his country he later graduated from Rochester Central High School in Rochester.Leroy married Norma Jean Ommen on September 5, 1953 in Fulda, MN. He joined the Merchant Marines and was in the Pacific, Atlantic, Asia, and the Mediterranean areas during WWII. Leroy was drafted into the U. S. Army for the Korean War and served stateside duty as a cook/baker and rose to level of Chief Petty Officer. When he was discharged from the Army he joined the U.S. Coast Guard.After his final honorable discharge he came back to Rochester where he started his career working in the local painter's union. Leroy served as the Business Agent for the Painter's Union where helped organize the Nurses and the Restaurant/Hospitality Unions.He later became a Painting Contractor until his retirement.He moved his family to the Byron area in 1960 and started a hobby beef farm near Oxbow Park.He belonged to the Purple Foot Wine Club for many years and served on various boards in the Rochester area.He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles for 65 years.Leroy enjoyed gardening and working in his orchard and vineyard.He was best known for his quick wit, world traveler stories, political views, larger than life personality, and dedication to family as well as those who needed a hand up in life. Leroy is survived by his wife of 59 years, Norma: six children, Sherri (Dave) Sovinski, of Chatfield, MN, Daniel (Marlene) Prince, of Byron, MN, Laurie Prince, of Spring Valley, MN, Lisa (Ladd) Baldus, of Byron, MN, Michelle (Joe) Kes-Prince, of Rochester, and Eric Prince, of Rochester: and many grandchildren and great-grand children. Leroy was preceded in death by his parents. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home with Rev. Dale Peel officiating.Visitation will be an hour prior to service at the funeral home.For information on the Celebration of Life gathering taking place after the funeral please call: 507-951-4478. Memorials can be directed to the RCTC Foundation in memory of Leroy Prince for scholarships at:851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904 or call 507-281-7770.