Francis M. Schwickerath, 83, of Nevada, died Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at the Story County Medical Center in Nevada. Francis was born November 10, 1928, at Colo, Iowa, the son of Leo and Catherine (Coleman) Schwickerath. He graduated from St. Mary's High School in North Washington. Francis farmed with his father and later started Francis' Refrigeration. He moved to Nevada in 1968 and owned and operated two laundromats, the Lincolnway Laundry in Nevada and the Dime-a-Time Laundry in Boone. Francis was a member of Saint Patrick's Catholic Church in Nevada where he enjoyed helping in various ministries. He was also a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters. Francis enjoyed visiting with his nephews and nieces and with his parish family. Francis is survived by two brothers: Donald (Donna) Schwickerath and Merle (Karen) Schwickerath, both of New Hampton, IA; three sisters: Marianne Mashek of Rockwell City, IA, Kathleen Sullivan of Charles City, IA, and Dorothy (Michael) Carlin of New Hampton, IA, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers-in-law: Donald Sullivan, Donald Mashek; and one nephew, Jason Schwickerath. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Friday at Saint Patrick's Church with Father Rick Daggit officiating. Interment will be in the Saint Patrick's Cemetery in Nevada. Visitation with the family present will be 6:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday at Saint Patrick's Catholic Church with a Christian Vigil Service at 7:45 PM. Memorials may be made to Saint Patrick's Catholic Church. The Bacon Funeral Home in Nevada is handling arrangements.