SHERIDAN -- Mass of Christian Burial for Sheridan resident Frank M. Patz, 89, will be celebrated at 10 a.m. today, June 21, at Holy Name Catholic Church in Sheridan by Fr. Ron Stolcis. Interment will follow in the Elks Cemetery.

He died June 17, 2005, at his home.

Born May 2, 1916, in Monarch, he was the son of Mary (Koscielniak) and Michael Patz; graduated from Sheridan High School; and worked at George's Food Market for several years.

On June 15, 1941, he married Estherlene J. "Lena" Madia of Kleenburn.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943 and was commissioned as an officer in 1951. His military career included service in the Pacific Theater during World War II; and, later, in Japan, Korea, Italy and Germany. He earned a degree in military science from the University of Nebraska; as well as numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star. In 1970, he retired at the rank of colonel.

After returning to Sheridan, he worked at the Sheridan Veterans Administration Hospital for several years.

He was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and Elks Club; and was a volunteer at the V.A. hospital and church. His interests included golfing, bowling, gardening, fishing, hunting, and exercising at the YMCA.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years of Sheridan; two sons, Fred Patz of Sheridan and Greg Patz and his wife of Juneau, Alaska; daughter, Laura H. Crawford, and her husband of Sheridan; and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and two sisters.

Memorials may be made to Holy Name Catholic Church, the YMCA "Give Your Heart to a Child" campaign, or a charity of the donor's choice, in care of Karen Green, First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Kane Funeral Home of Sheridan is in charge of arrangements.