Frank Kirchmann

Francis “Frank” Kirchmann was born on March 6, 1933 on a farm near Valley, NE to Henry D. and Dorthea (Thomsen) Kirchmann. Frank was the youngest of 6 boys. Frank’s mother passed away on December 25, 1937, leaving Frank and 2 brothers with their Dad. Frank attended country school in rural Valley through the 6th grade. His youth was filled with fishing, farm work, loving animals, and lots of shenanigans by the creek on the farm. After moving to Fremont, he attended both junior and senior high. He graduated from Fremont High School in 1950 and he was able to attend his 72nd class reunion last year. While in high school, he worked many part time jobs which developed his fierce work ethic. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy and served our country for 2 years and 10 months. He was a proud veteran. After the service, he worked various jobs and finally settled in at Hormel Foods in Fremont. He met the love of his life, Helen Ackerman, upon returning from the Navy. They were married on June 20, 1954. They lived a wonderful life celebrating 71 years of marriage. They lived most of their married life on a farm near Valley. To this marriage, they were blessed with 3 children, Debbie, Jeannie, and Terry. Frank worked hard at Hormel while also doing farm work. When the girls were in high school, he took correspondence classes to become an electrician, he retired from Hormel in 1993. In his retirement, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, and traveling. He loved his vacation home in Forsythe, Missouri. Frank was a faith filled man. His church and church family meant everything to him. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers, George, Leroy, Don, Melvin, and Richard, his son Terry, and grandson, Tim. He is survived by his wife, Helen, daughters, Debbie Hascall and Jeannie (Robert) Scholz, grandson, Dr, Kyle (Jennifer) Hascall, great granddaughters, Henley and Harper Hascall, many loving nieces and nephews, and great friends, Tobe and Twila Coburn. Frank touched many lives in his 91 years. As a friend said, I’m smiling for Frank but I’m sad for us he left behind. He will be missed. Memorial designations are suggested to St. Mark's Lutheran Church or the Valley Fire Department.

Frank Kirchmann

March 6, 1933 - November 25, 2024