Howard Hetzel, age 103, of Tomahawk, passed away on May 3, 2023 at Tomahawk Health Services.
Howard was born on February 16, 1920 in Almond, Wis., to Albert “AJ” and Hazel (Stewart) Hetzel. Howard entered into the U.S. Army in 1941. He served during World War II as a Staff Sergeant and forward observer in northern Africa and Italy. He was wounded in Italy and received a Purple Heart. Shortly after his return from war, he married June Kniskern on July 21, 1945 in Rapid River, Mich. Howard was employed as a master plumber with his father as a well-driller and took over Hetzel’s Plumbing in the 1950s. The 4th generation family business continues and spans over 99 years. Following his retirement, Howard took up woodworking and has made many gun cabinets, tables, toy boxes and other furniture pieces.
Howard was a member of American Legion Post #93 for 78 years, Masons for 44 years, Shriners for 40 years, and Funster Clowns for 20 years. He also was an alderman for 10 years and on the sewer and water board for six years in Tomahawk. He enjoyed playing golf, going to the Packer Games, including the Ice Bowl and three Super Bowls that the Packers played in. Howard and June also enjoyed many winters in Texas.
Howard is survived by three daughters: Dallas (James) Ashbrenner, Rhinelander; Sally (Dick) Darmody, Boise, Idaho; Mary (Jon) Langlois, Rhinelander; three sons: Alan (Mary) Hetzel of Stevens Point; Bruce (Maribeth) Hetzel of Tomahawk; David (Debbie) Hetzel of Tomahawk; one sister, Marlyn Hulstedt. Howard is further survived by 18 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his wife, June; his parents, five sisters, one son-in-law and one grandson.
The Funeral Service with Military Honors for Howard Hetzel took place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at the United Methodist Church in Tomahawk. Visitation took place from 1 p.m. until the time of service. The burial service took place at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 8 at Greenwood Cemetery. Krueger Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Tomahawk, assisted the family with arrangements. You may view the full obituary and leave online condolences at www.kruegerfamilyfuneral.com.