Leo Fraser

Leo Homer Fraser – Dec. 3, 1926 – May 6, 2021

CROSSLAKE – Leo (94) was born Dec. 3, 1926 in Pine River to Homer & Alice (Kosse) Fraser.  Leo graduated from Pine River School in 1943.  In 1944 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served until June 1946. He returned to Crosslake and was employed by his father at Crosslake Lumber.  In November of 1948, he married his high-school sweetheart, Doris (“Dodo”) Anderson.  When his father passed away in 1980, he and his brother Francis purchased the company and remained there until 1992 when they sold to Simonson’s.

Leo was a charter member of Immaculate Heart Church (1955), a charter member of Crosslake Fire Dept., where he served as Assistant Chief.  He was a member of Crosslake Chamber of Commerce, Crosslake and Crow Wing Historical Societies, Game & Fish Club, American Legion #613, V.F.W., & Knights of Columbus.  In the ‘80’s he and Dodo enjoyed square dancing with the Heartland Squares.  On any Tuesday, you would find him on the “Hill” working with the KC “Wood Guys”.

Leo is survived by his wife “Dodo” of 72 years, brother John (Lois) Fraser, sisters-in-law Helen Fraser, Hope Anderson and Helen Engstrom.  Four children: Michael, Swanburg, Mary (Denny) Dischinger, Crosslake, Ann (James) Manthey, Stillwater, Tony (Mary) Fraser, Crosslake.  Seven grandchildren: Jennifer (John) Bestenlehner, Kentucky, Jeffrey (Sandi) Hoag, Nisswa, Brian (Shannon) Hoag, Utah, Fr. Kevin Manthey, Quebec, Gregory Manthey, Milwaukee, Matthew (Abbey) Fraser, Fargo and Joseph (Erika), Fargo.

Seven great-grandchildren: Daniel Bestenlehner, Madeleine & Delaney Hoag, Liam Hoag, Ruby, Leo and Crosby Fraser.  He was also blessed with four step-great grandchildren: Morgan Bestenlehner, Gunnar (Avarie) Bestenlehner, great-great grandchildren Orion and Atticus, Jake Bingham, great-great granddaughter RayAnn and Stevie Bingham, and many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial: Thursday, May 13, 11 AM, Immaculate Heart Church, Crosslake with visitation from 10-11 AM.  Rosary at 10 am.  Access livestream through the church website.

Visitation: Wednesday, May 12, 5-8 pm, Immaculate Heart Church.

Memorials in Leo’s honor may be sent to Immaculate Heart Church or the Crosslake Historical Society.