Elaine C. Franta

Elaine Clare Franta, age 97 of Harris MN, passed away on May 7, 2026 after suffering a stroke on May 1.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank John Franta; her sons, Fred, James, and Scott; her son-in-law, Peter Pream; parents, George and Catherine (Mersch) Strafelda; and her brothers, Roy, Thomas, and David.

Elaine is survived by her daughters, Julie (James) Thill; Linda Pream; and Coralie (Charles) Liberko; daughters-in-law, Kaye Franta and Amy Clasen Hahn; 20 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

Born March 24, 1929 in St. Paul, Minnesota, Elaine was raised with the values of hard work, faith, thrift, and family devotion that shaped her entire life. Proud of her Czech heritage, she loved cooking, gardening, canning, and feeding others. Whether through homemade cookies, sauerkraut, potato dumplings, refrigerator pickles, pickled pepper relish, strawberry rhubarb jam or a warm meal shared around her table, Elaine showed love through hospitality and generosity.

Elaine began working at the age of 13 and eventually became Head Cook at St. Catherine College, where she prepared over a million meals for students and staff. She was known for her strong work ethic, resilience, and caring heart. Elaine was a self-less care giver and joyfully served others.

At age 13, Elaine met the love of her life, Frank John Franta, and the two married after high school. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, music, friendship, and fun. Elaine enjoyed playing accordion and chord organ, reading recipes, dancing polkas, fishing, bowling, card games, Yahtzee, Rummikub, puzzles, embroidery, and crochet. The family lake cabin became a treasured gathering place filled with laughter, meals, and memories.

Above all, Elaine was devoted to her family. She endured life’s hardships with grace, faith and strength. Her life was an example of perseverance, fortitude, kindness, and unconditional love. Her legacy, is one built with intention and commitment. Elaine’s legacy of faith, strength, generosity, and work ethic will live on through the many lives she touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Elaine will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, June 2 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 2090 N. Hamline Ave., Roseville. Visitation will be held at the church from 9-10 AM Tuesday. A luncheon will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers or memorials consider donating to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.