A Mass of Christian Burial for Francis Bartosh, age 97 of Windom, will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, February 2nd at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Windom. Military honors will be provided by American Legion Post 206 of Windom. Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Heron Lake.

The Funeral Mass will be livestreamed on the church's website. https://www.sfxwindom.org/online-mass.

A visitation for Francis will be held on Sunday, February 1st from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at the LaCanne Family Celebration of Life Center in Windom. Visitation will continue on Monday at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Windom for one hour prior to the Funeral Mass.

Francis Joseph Bartosh was born on January 24, 1929, in Heron Lake, Minnesota, to the late Carl and Monica (Freking) Bartosh. He grew up in rural Cottonwood County, attending country school through the eighth grade. His upbringing rooted him deeply in the land and instilled a strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.

Francis followed his lifelong passion for agriculture and was proud to make his living as a farmer. His love for the land was briefly interrupted when he was drafted into the United States Marine Corps. He served his country honorably and upon his discharge, he returned home eager to resume the life he loved.

On September 10, 1957, Francis was united in marriage to Clara Brecht at St. Mary Catholic Church in Winnebago. After marriage, they farmed on the Bartosh family homestead in Springfield Township, Cottonwood County, Minnesota, and in 1965, they purchased their own farm in Springfield Township. Francis took great pride in caring for his land and livestock, and he continued farming until his retirement in 1996.

A man of steady and faithful devotion, Francis was a longtime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where he served on the Parish Council and played an instrumental role in the installation of the church elevator. He was also a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters, St. Cyril Court. After moving to Windom, Francis became a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, where he continued his lifelong commitment to his faith and parish community.

Above all else, Francis cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving grandfather and great-grandfather. He found deep joy in time spent with his children, grandchildren, and relatives and took quiet pride in watching his family grow. He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events and supporting them in all they did.

Francis served for many years as Clerk of the Springfield Township Board and was a dedicated member of the American Legion, where he was recently honored with a 70-year membership pin. On May 7, 2019, he was awarded an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., accompanied by his grandson, Zach, that proved to be an unforgettable experience for them both. Francis was also a member of the Bald Eagles Men's Group of Windom. In Aug 1971, Francis was featured on the cover of "The Farmer" magazine, and much to his chagrin, his picture filled the entire cover of the newspaper that cited, "Mr. Farmer, We Salute You." This was quite a splash for a humble Cottonwood County farmer. A faithful Minnesota sports fan, Francis took every opportunity to cheer on the Vikings, Twins, Timberwolves, and Wild.

On January 26, 2026, Francis passed away peacefully at Sunset Cottage in Worthington, MN, at the age of 97.

Francis is survived by his two children, Allen (Sandra) Bartosh of Windom and Sharon (Douglas) Kneeland of Windom; five grandchildren, Becky (Denis) Kneeland-Sik, Craig (Kristy) Kneeland, Danny (Kelsey) Kneeland, Zach (Macy) Bartosh and Hannah Bartosh; eight great-grandchildren, Kelci, Carter, Kylie, Chloe, Theodore, Harrison, Nila, and Kamden; one sister, Mary Ann Benson of Windom; as well as several nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Francis was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Bartosh; two infant sons, Gregory and Thomas; parents, Carl and Monica Bartosh; brothers, Bernard, Leo, and Charles Bartosh; sisters, Josephine Bartosh, Sally Heger, Geraldine Cooley, Phyl Hoffmann, Rita Schoborg, and Margaret Ling.

Blessed be the memory of Francis Bartosh.