Fred Trachsel

Fred R. Trachsel, 93, of Rochester, MN, passed away on March 3, 2026 at Mayo Clinic Methodist Hospital.

Fred would say, "I've been a very lucky man." Fred was born on February 10, 1933 in Black River Falls, WI and raised on a farm near Humbird, WI by his father Fred J. Trachsel, and mother, Mildred Anderson Trachsel. He graduated from Lincoln, High in 1951; a consolidated high school in Alma Center, WI. He then attended barber school in Eau Claire, WI to become a licensed barber. In June of 1952, during the Korean War, Fred enlisted in the US Navy. During his time in the navy, he worked in Dentistry at Great Lakes Naval training center until he received an honorable discharge in June of 1956. He then accepted a job as a dental technician in Cedar Rapids, IA.

On September 22, 1956, Fred married his high school sweetheart Ramona "Nanny" Senske. They lived in Cedar Rapids, IA until February 1957 when a job as a dental technician became available in Rochester, MN where they have called home ever since. Fred and Ramona joined Peace United Church of Christ in 1957. They were blessed with 3 sons; Gregory, Brian, and Jonathan. After working six years at a Rochester dental lab they established Trachsel Dental Studio in 1963.

Many may not have known but Fred was a licensed pilot. Fred's hobbies included collecting antique automobiles, antique glass, hunting, fishing, and his role as beloved husband, father, and grandfather. In addition to being a long-time member of Peace United Church of Christ, Fred was a senior member of the Minnesota Dental Lab Association, a Certified Dental Technician of over 60 years, many antique auto clubs and Pleasant Prairie Cemetery Association. Fred won several awards for his antique automobiles and later donated several antique cars to the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, MI. Those who knew Fred knows he loved being a dental technician. He "never worked a day in his life", when in reality he proudly worked until the age of 92 years young.

He was preceded in death by his son Jonathan; Parents; and brother, James Trachsel. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Ramona; children, Greg Trachsel and Brian (Sloane) Trachsel; and grandchildren, Heather, Jacob (Megan), Kendra and Jonathan.

A visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 pm on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes (5421 Royal Pl NW Rochester, MN 55901). A memorial service will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Peace United Church of Christ (1503 2nd Ave NE, Rochester, MN 55906) with visitation one hour prior and military honors to follow the service. Burial will be in Pleasant Prairie Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Jonathan David Trachsel Scholarship Fund or

The Salvation Army Good Samaritan Health Clinic (Medical and Dental Services).

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Trachsel family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com