Heinz U. Wamser

Heinz Udo Wamser, age 74, of Woodridge, IL, formerly of Downers Grove, IL, passed away Thursday, June 7th, 2018, at Seasons Hospice in Naperville, IL. He was born Nov. 5th, 1943, in Schleswig, Germany, to his late parents Willi and Karla (nee Ottzen) Wamser. In 1950, Heinz’ family moved from Germany to Westmont, IL, leaving behind family and friends to start a new life in the United States. He was the beloved husband of 54 years, to Jeanne (nee Carley) Wamser, living 37 years in Downers Grove, IL, and then making a move to Woodridge, IL to find that bigger space for his toys. Loving father of Michelle (Craig) Harvey. Cherished Grandfather of Marykellie, Annalise, Alyssa and Tyler. Proud Grandfather of great-grandson Dakota VanVorst. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Anke Jachmann, his brother-in-law Don Carley, his nephew Steven Fitka, and his aunt Olly and uncle Theo Ottzen (Germany). He is survived by his brother-in-law Bruno Jachmann, niece Larisa (Troy) Swiger, sister-in-law Patricia Fitka, nephew Frank Fitka, great nephew Joe Fitka, and his cousin Maike Ottzen (Germany). Heinz started working for International Harvester, Hinsdale, IL in 1963. When part of the company was acquired by J. I. Case, Heinz moved to the metallurgical department of the Melrose Park plant and began working for the International Truck and Engine division of Navistar, where he worked for a total of 44 years before retiring in 2007. Most of the time, you could find Heinz in the yard or the garage, puttering around with one thing or another. He loved working in the yard and cutting grass was not a chore for him. When he was able, he enjoyed attending those dance recitals and sporting events for his grandchildren, and when not, he was there in spirit. He was a “Big” man with a gentle soul and a great sense of humor. He loved animals and was willing to help when needed or not. The last four years was a “hard fought” battle for Heinz. After discovering he had cancer, he decided to take an aggressive approach. There was major surgery, rehab, and then Proton radiation. Of course, this particular Cancer “fought back” and Heinz lost the battle, but he went down fighting. Our family would like to express our appreciation for all the prayers, thoughts and well wishes sent his way during his fight to kick this nasty beast. Love, The Heinz Wamser Family

Heinz U. Wamser

June 7, 2018