Francis A. Erschens, age 82, of Apache Junction, Arizona, formerly of the Elkton-Lake Benton area, died Friday, August 28, 2009, at a care center in Mesa, Arizona. Graveside services will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday, September 5, 2009, at St. Marys Cemetery in Elkton, South Dakota. Eidsness Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Francis A. Erschens was born October 22, 1926, on the family farm in Drammen Township, Lincoln County, Minnesota, to John and Clara (Schuler) Erschens. He grew up and attended country school in Drammen Township. He was baptized and confirmed at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Elkton. On September 29, 1959, he married Betty Miedema at Madison, South Dakota. They remained on the family farm until 1987 when they moved to Brookings, and in 1994 moved to Arizona. Francis was a good steward of the land, and his interest in farming continued throughout his entire life.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Erschens, of Apache Junction, Arizona; a son, Joseph Erschens, of Herndon, Virginia; two grandsons, Michael and Zachary; and a sister, Theresa Erschens, of Brookings, South Dakota. Francis was preceded in death by his parents.

Condolences may be mailed to Betty Erschens, 2400 E. Baseline, Sp. 260, Apache Junction, AZ 85119.