Franz Josef Kokott

Franz Josef Kokott, age 83, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, reuniting at last with the love of his life, his wife of 62 years.

Franz was born on January 22, 1942, in Silesia. As a teenager, he and his family immigrated to the United States as refugees, briefly settling in Milwaukee. Those early years shaped the man he became resilient, hardworking, and deeply committed to building a better life for his family.

In September of 1962, Franz married the woman who would be his anchor and partner in all things. Together, he and Ursula built a life rooted in love, family, and perseverance. Their marriage endured until her passing in 2024, a loss he carried quietly and deeply.

Franz began his working life as a house painter, a trade that reflected his strong work ethic and determination. He later went on to own and operate Laschet's Inn, a beloved German bar and restaurant in Chicago. Laschet's was more than a business; it was a gathering place, a second home for many, and a reflection of Franz himself — welcoming, lively, occasionally loud, and always memorable.

He was a strict but good father, one who loved his children deeply, even if he didn’t always show it softly. His pride in them was constant and unwavering. Franz loved hosting parties, sharing a good drink, and bringing people together around a table. He found peace fishing along the Mississippi River in Winona, MN, or Cassville, WI. He enjoyed hot summer days on a sandbar, a place that matched his appreciation for simple joys. He loved animals & if there was a stray dog, it was sure to find its way into our living room.

While Franz wasn’t mechanical and couldn’t fix much with his hands, he could paint a French window door in 20 minutes without painter’s tape! He made up for his lack of handyman prowess with sharp observation and, when the moment struck, a surprisingly good sense of humor. He was known for his short temper and his ability to occasionally ruffle feathers, yet somehow it was impossible not to love him. His presence was big, his opinions strong, and his heart unmistakably his own.

Franz leaves behind a family who loved him, learned from him, and will carry his stories forward — stories filled with grit, laughter, stubbornness, generosity, and love.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his 4 children, their spouses, his 10 grandchildren & 3 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, please donate to the Winona Area Humane Society or your local animal rescue shelter.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Watkowsk-Mulyck Funeral Home in Winona, MN, on Saturday, February 21, 2026, with visitation beginning at 3 PM, and a service of remembrance at 3:30 PM.