Mildred Frances Oothoudt Winkelman

Published March 13, 2020 at 4:14 PM

Mildred Frances Oothoudt Winkelman, 95, of Brainerd, Minn. passed away Thursday, March 12, 2020 at St. Otto’s Care Center in Little Falls, Minn. Per Frances’ request, no services will be held.

Frances was born October 1, 1924 in Forrest City, AR, the daughter of Jessie and Betty Mae (Harris) Hodges. She is the last of seventeen children who grew up picking cotton on the family plantation. The hard work she valued early in life instilled a good work ethic that never failed Frances. She always was willing to lend an extra hand. She was married to Orval Oothoudt for 56 years and they were blessed with four children. She truly was a perfect mother – loving, protective and generous. Losing her son in Vietnam also earned her the title Gold Star Mother.

Frances is survived by her children, Danny Oothoudt, Mark Oothoudt, and Gayle (Glen) Holst; grandchildren, Terri (Aaron) Holtin and Gary (Lynn) Oothoudt; and many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other family members. She was preceded in death by her husband Orval; husband Leonard Winkelman; son, Gary Oothoudt, and her 16 siblings.

Nelson – Doran Funeral Home is privileged to share Frances’ story.