Hans found eternal peace on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at the age of 91 surrounded by the love of his family.

Beloved husband of 64 years to belated wife Ingeborg. Preceded in death by his daughter Nancy Friedel. Loving dad to Gary Knoff (Stephanie), Jody Campbell (Rich), and Mary Kaczmarek (Jason). Dear Opa to Ryan, Jessica (Stephen), Kai, Derrick (Natasha), Bethany (Noah), Ambree, Jacob, Alyssa, and Sam. Further survived by great-grandchildren Mason, Harleigh, Camden, Ella, London, Beckham, and Sutton. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Hans grew up in West Allis, Wisconsin. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War in communication operations stationed in Germany. Soon after, he met the love of his life, Inge, in Milwaukee on New Year’s Eve. They married on July 19, 1958, and raised their family of four children in Greenfield, Wisconsin. Hans worked for Mobil Oil Corporation for many years. After retirement, he built a home on Dutch Hollow Lake with Inge where they spent many happy times.

Hans will be remembered as a humble, hardworking, charismatic charmer with a warm and friendly presence. His greatest joy was being a devoted, supportive family man. All will remember him as patient, easy-going, and always there for them at the drop of a hat. He always had a humorous play on words and made people laugh with his jokes and one-liners. He loved spending time with his grandchildren. They will never forget his big bear hugs that squeezed the breath out of them.

Hans had a passion for woodworking, gardening, fishing, bird-watching, taking walks, watching old movies, crossword puzzles, playing sheepshead, listening to oldies music, and sports. He was known for his athletic, competitive stamina. He played basketball and then for many years in Dartball leagues. However, his greatest passion was baseball. He played in Minor League baseball as a pitcher alongside Harvey Kuenn and Bob Uecker. He also umped and coached for many years for Little League teams. Listening or going to a ball game was his favorite pastime.

Dad/Opa, you will be greatly missed. Our memories of you will live on forever. With all our love, you will always be held deep in our hearts.

A private committal service will be held at Highland Memorial Park on Friday, October 20, 2023.

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