Franz Himmel Obituary

Franz Himmel, 82, passed away October 31, 2015 at home in Eau Claire, WI with his family by his side. He was born on May 14, 1933 in Rudolfsgnad, Yugoslavia to Helen (Fixari) and Nikolaus Himmel. His early years were spent at the family vineyard. During WWII, his family took refuge in Austria. They then moved to Bad Schussenried, Germany where he studied for and became an electrician.

After immigrating to Chicago in 1954, he worked for Zenith Radio Corp. for 25 years. He served in the US Army for 2 years where he was stationed in Germany and France as a translator. In Chicago, he met and married Helga Morics with whom he had 2 children. In 1979, the family moved to Cortez, CO where they owned and managed a KOA campground for 10 years. After selling the business, they purchased the Bel Rau Motel which they managed until retirement.

Franz was a kind, hard-working, family man and friend. He was always there to help anyone in need. His gentle sense of humor made it a pleasure to be in his company. He enjoyed maintaining his home and businesses and was an excellent downhill skier. But his true passion was fishing. He spent much of his free time fishing in Wisconsin, Colorado and Florida. After retirement, he and Helga enjoyed traveling to many US State and National Parks, Las Vegas and Mexico.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Helga; son, Edwin (Rebecca) Himmel of Dolores, CO; daughter, Linda (Dan) Lowry of Eau Claire, WI; sister, Helen Voegele of Ravensburg, Germany; grandchildren, Nicholas (Tonya) Himmel, Vanessa (Tony) Roybal, David Lowry, andFrank Lowry; and great granddaughter, Nova Roybal.

Condolences may be sent to: The Family of Franz Himmel c/o Cremation Society of Wisconsin, 535 S. Hillcrest Pkwy., Altoona, WI 54720.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.