Francis "Frank" L. Finn

Francis (Frank) L. Finn passed away unexpectedly on Friday May 31, 2024 at his home in Onalaska, WI. He was born on December 30, 1943, to Joseph and Mary (McElmeel) Finn in Dubuque, Iowa.

Frank was one of seven children. His early life included his father’s premature death which led to his placement in an orphanage in Dubuque, then Boystown, Nebraska, and eventually St. Michael’s orphanage in La Crosse, WI.

Upon graduation from Aquinas High School in La Crosse he attended and graduated college in Madison, WI while working multiple jobs and received his degree in accounting. His early career, not in accounting, spanned a few decades and included many years selling the widest variety of products. Frank married Patricia (Kapinski) and together they had two sons they’re very proud of: Scott and Randy. Scott and Randy have many children and grandchildren who are loved tremendously.

In 1986 Frank married Laurie and they have two daughters, Ashley and Amanda. For the last 37 years, he and Laurie established and grew a business, Finnottes Nut and Chocolate Shop, that would change profoundly throughout the years. In everything, he maintained a level of integrity and work ethic that never waned. Frank built many meaningful and long lasting relationships with members of the business community both in La Crosse and around the country, acknowledging and embracing individuals regardless of title.

If he wasn’t at the warehouse “packing his nuts” or in the office making sales calls, you would find Frank on the golf course or in the kitchen. He loved nothing more than to prepare a huge meal with all the food anyone could want. He was always ready to give a massive hug, to play a card game, or to engage in a lively debate. No matter the circumstances, he knew he was right, and you’d let him believe it at least 30% of the time.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Mary and brothers Joseph and Patrick.

Frank is survived by his siblings Mary, Alice, Ann Marie, Jerry, his first wife Patricia, their sons Scott (Jennifer) and Randy (Pamela) and their children and grandchildren. He is also survived by his wife Laurie, their daughters Ashley and Amanda, Laurie’s parents Carol and Alfred Otte, and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Funeral services will be on Thursday, June 6th at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 515 Main Street North in Holmen, WI. Visitation to be held at 10AM until time of funeral mass at 12PM with luncheon to follow. Graveside services will take place at 3:00 pm on Friday, June 7th at the Onalaska City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made directly to the family, Aquinas Catholic Schools, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, or to an organization of your choosing in his name. Thank you.