Horst Franz Eggert, 90, passed away on Wednesday morning, Oct. 17, 2012, at his home in Waltham, Minn.

Horst was born Aug. 20, 1922, the son of Franz and Helene (Knoop) Eggert in Ruschirtz, Germany. He helped on the family farm while learning his trade as a machinist. He served in World War II, during which he was captured just off the coast of Tunisia and became a prisoner of war for five years, most of which he spent in Egypt. He then immigrated to the United States on Aug. 5, 1951, to live with his uncle Ben and aunt Clara Eggert. He worked with his uncle in his blacksmith shop until 1959, when he bought the blacksmith shop and built his own business, Eggert Farm Service. He married Erika Griese on May 29, 1953, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waltham, and they had one son, Norbert Eggert. Horst retired in 1996, but continued to work as a part time welder until he was 80 years old. He served as Trustee and Head Usher at church for several years. He was Mayor of Waltham for 10 years and on the City Council for 16 years.

Horst loved fishing, bowling, dancing, traveling and spending time with family and friends. He was known for always having a piece of candy for anyone he met. He celebrated his 90th birthday in August during his weekly Saturday coffee party with family and friends, and was overjoyed with all of the well wishes he received. Shortly after his 90th birthday party, he became ill. He spent a few weeks rehabilitating before his final wish of going home was granted. On Oct. 17, 2012, in his home of 59 years, Horst said, “Home, Sweet Home!” and peacefully left the loving embrace of his family to be welcomed into the loving arms of those close family and friends waiting for him.

Horst is survived by his wife, Erika Eggert, Waltham; son, Norbert (Jean) Eggert, Waltham; granddaughters, Emily and Amy Eggert; several cousins; and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister.

The funeral service for Horst Franz Eggert will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 20, 2012, at Trinity Lutheran Church 57043 300th St., Waltham, Minn. with the Rev. Jeffrey Kuddes officiating. Interment will be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Waltham. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. on Oct. 19 at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home 501 Second St. NW, in Hayfield and one hour before the service at the church on Saturday.