Francis “Frank” Fred Bladt

Francis “Frank” Fred Bladt

August 26, 1923 – November 17, 2020

Francis “Frank” Fred Bladt, loving husband and wonderful father, passed away on Tuesday November 17, 2020 at age 97.  Frank was born on August 26, 1923 in Shelby, Iowa to Fred and Minnie Bladt.  He was raised near the town of Clarks in Merrick County, Nebraska by his beloved grandmother, Maggie Dittmer.  Frank was a World War II veteran, serving in the 127th Naval Construction Battalion.  On December 16, 1945, he married Anita Elaine Klauschie, and together they raised three children.

Frank was a good, generous, and kind man of abiding faith, great optimism, tireless work ethic, and marvelous sense of humor.  In 1951 he formed the company Bladt & Hendricks Sheet Metal, and in 1968 he founded Bladt’s Heating and Air Conditioning.  Frank owned and operated his business spanning an astonishing six decades until he retired at age 87.  Frank’s hobbies included fishing and hunting in his younger days.  At age 50, he and Anita learned to snow ski, an activity that the entire family enjoyed for many years. Frank and Anita delighted in ballroom dancing.  They traveled widely, visiting numerous locations throughout the United States, Europe, and Latin America.  Frank was very active in the local church, serving in leadership roles on various boards and committees and volunteering together with Anita as high school youth group counselors.  He coordinated numerous Habitat for Humanity “Blitz Build” projects.  Frank was an avid reader, and he always enjoyed visiting with family and friends.

What we remember most fondly is that our dad was always there for of us.  Our mistakes were not met with anger but with the calm words, “What have you learned?” When we were youngsters, he encouraged us and gently guided us as we participated in music, scouting, and sports.  He even helped us learn algebra.  As we became adults, he offered a sympathetic ear. He was a wonderful listener and a good friend.

Frank is survived by Anita, his loving wife of nearly 75 years; children: Fran (Jeff), Stan, and Jeff; four grandchildren: Dustin, Kory, Shauna, and Andrew; great-grandson, Gunnar.

FUNERAL SERVICE: Monday, June 7th at 11am at the Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Road. A luncheon will follow the service at Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler Mortuaries at 7805 West Center Road beginning at 1:00 p.m.  Memorials may be dedicated to Habitat for Humanity, Pacific Hills Lutheran Church Care Committee, or Pacific Hills Lutheran Church Preschool.

1 Condolence

  • Scott Yahnke Posted June 6, 2021 11:20 am

    Stan, Dusty, and Kory, as well as all in the Family, my deepest condolences for the passing of your father and grandfather. I remember Stan talking lovingly about his dad many years ago. I know that Frank was indispensable as a grandpa, too. Love and God bless, and may all the fine memories you have of your dad and grandpa keep him close in your hearts always. -Scott

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