Frank Werner concluded his earthly life on Dec. 4, 2023. He was born on Nov. 24, 1935, in Emmons County, North Dakota, to Andrew and Anna Mary (Vetter) Werner. He attended local schools and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1958. After the military, he went to Wapeton State School of Science to receive his training to be a plumber. On Sept. 30, 1967, he married Elizabeth (Betty) Kaech at St. Francis Mission in Toledo, Washington. He joined the plumbers Local 82 and was a plumber/pipefitter in the area. He opened his own shop in 1983. In 1975, Frank and Betty purchased a small farm near Onalaska. In 2021, he and Betty moved from the farm to Centralia.
Frank was a man of faith — devoted to God and grateful for all that God has done for us in Christ. Most recently, he was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Chehalis, but for many years was a member of St. Francis Mission in Toledo. He was a dedicated and loving spouse, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. He enjoyed fishing, farming, auctions, polka music, card games and horses.
Frank and Betty were blessed with 10 children, nine of whom survive him: Rev. Steven Werner, Michael (Michelle), Dennis (Madoka), Christopher (Heidi), Mary (Cory) Vawter, Mark (Dorothy), Heidi, Wendy and Andrew (Tanya). He is also survived by his wife, Betty, as well as by a brother, August (Phyllis), and a sister, Julia Ibach, both of Bismarck, North Dakota. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Diana; grandson, Justin; parents; two brothers; and six sisters.
Funeral services for Frank will include a vigil/rosary on Dec. 10 at 4 p.m. at Sticklin Funeral Chapel; a funeral Mass the next day at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Chehalis; and burial at Claquato Cemetery following Mass.
