Francis Sorg, 96, of Owatonna, Minnesota, died Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014, at Koda Living Community.

Francis was born Nov. 19, 1917, in Lester, Iowa, the son of John and Mabel (Cunningham) Sorg. There he was raised and attended school. He was united in marriage to Emily Doerhoefer on Dec. 28, 1941, in Fulda, Minnesota. He entered the United States Army and served from 1942 until receiving his honorable discharge in 1945. The couple moved to Blooming Prairie where Francis farmed with his brothers. In 1955, the couple moved near Dexter, Minnesota, and continued farming until retiring in 1976. They moved to Spicer, Minnesota, where they enjoyed their retirement. They began traveling south during the winter months. Emily died in 1993 while wintering in Arizona. Francis moved to Claremont and later to Owatonna.

He had many hobbies which included woodworking, gardening, both vegetable and flower, and fishing.

He is survived by four sons: LeRoy Sorg, Bradley Sorg of Albert Lea, David (and Judy) Sorg of Middleburg, Florida, Perry (and Debbie) Sorg of Owatonna; a sister, Ruth Clark of Plymouth; a brother, Gene Sorg of Menominee, Wisconsin; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; along with many nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Emily; a daughter, Shari Sorg-Ross; and a son, Kelly “Snags” Sorg; a grandson, Scott; a granddaughter, Ashley; a great-granddaughter, Ashley; and two brothers: Lysle and Merle.

Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2014. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, 2014, at Michaelson Funeral Home with the Rev. Greg Schlicker officiating. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post 91 Funeral Escort, Austin.