Alvin W. Hertaus, 79, of New Prague died Monday May 18 at Queen of Peace Hospital, New Prague.

Alvin was born Oct. 22, 1929, in Wheatland Township, Rice County, MN, to William F. and Elizabeth A. (Marek) Hertaus. He attended Veseli school, St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, and graduated from New Prague High School. He married Diane C. Dvorak on August 9, 1958, in New Prague and lived and worked in New Prague until 1983 when they moved to Le Center. The Hertauses moved back to New Prague about 1993.

Alvin Hertaus was a sergeant in the U.S. Army (1953-1956) and served in Germany. Al owned and operated the Rainbow Café in New Prague before starting Fashion Flowers. He and his wife owned and operated Fashion Interiors in New Prague for 20 years. Al also worked for 30 years as a real estate and insurance agent. He was instrumental in helping to start the New Prague Volunteer Ambulance Service.

Mr. Hertaus was an active member of New Prague American Legion and VFW, 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, Lonsdale Lions, and was Commander of Le Sueur County Council.

Mr. Hertaus is survived by his wife Diane of New Prague; 4 children William & Annie of Veseli, Ronald & Lisa of New Prague, Renee & Randy Wawrzyniak of Glencoe, Alan & Kerrie of Le Center; 3 brothers Francis & Bella of New Prague, Raymond & Joyce of New Prague, Roman & Jan of Prior Lake; 2 sisters Lorraine Kes of Shakopee, Dorothy & Clarence Skluzacek of Lonsdale; and 11 grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by parents; 2 daughters Deborah Hertaus (in infancy), Sandra Marie Hertaus (6); 2 grandchildren Katie Rose Hertaus, Riley Wawrzyniak; brother William; and brother-in-law Tom Kes.

Visitation 7:30-9:30 a.m. today at Bruzek Funeral Home, New Prague (952-758-4949).

Mass of Christian Burial 10 AM Thursday (today) at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church New Prague with Father John Lapensky officiating. Fr. Ray Monsour, Rev. Steve Trewartha, and Deacon Len Shambour will assist.

Burial will be in the St. Wenceslaus Cemetery, New Prague. Military rites will be conducted by the New Prague Veterans Honor Guard.