Fred Vavra

Fred Vavra Jr., age 87 of Lake City, died on Thursday, May 24, 2012 at the Lake City Hospital. Fred was born November 6, 1924 in Le Center, Minnesota the son of Fred and Anna (Holey) Vavra. He grew up in Le Center and graduated from a one-room school house in the country. He worked on the farm until he entered the United States Army in 1944 and served in the Pacific Theater. Fred returned home on September 8, 1946 and he met the love of his life and proposed a week later. On April 8, 1947 he married Patricia Crawley in St. Paul. Fred operated the steam shovel and was a crane operator for J.L. Shiely. They lived in St. Paul until 2003 when they moved to Lake City. They enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time up in Lindstrom. Patricia died on February 17, 2011. Fred enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, woodworking, playing banjo and fiddle.

Fred is survived by his daughter Sharyn (Adolph) Zanto of Lake City; three grandchildren, Randall Zanto of Lake City, Gordon (Christina) Zanto of Wabasha, Keith (Dori) Zanto of St. Charles; two great grandchildren, Madison and Zackary Zanto; one great great grandson, Cole; two sisters; and three brothers.

Fred was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Patricia Vavra; his parents; one great-grandson, Taylor Michael Zanto; two brothers; and one sister.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at Oakwood Cemetery with Reverend Darren Paulson officiating. Arrangements are being handled by Mahn Family Funeral Home, Anderson-Peterson Chapel in Lake City.

---

Cemetery

MAY 29. 1:00 PM (CDT)

Oakwood - Lake City
Lake City, MN 55041