Thursday, March 9, 2023
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Franz’s passing, came as a real shock to me. We had spoken on the phone only the day before his stroke, planning for him to make this year to you California.
Franz and I were best friends for over 62 years. I met him on the bus on route to registering for college at Rutgers university in 1961. We worked full-time during the day and attended full-time classes in the evening for 4+ years. We were fraternity brothers, during that time.
Over the years, we traveled extensively throughout the world, together and with other friends. Taking trips to such places as New Zealand, Australia, China, England, Germany, Austria, Canada, and Greece where we attended the entire Olympic Games in 2004.
Franz visited me in California on a regular basis having more than 20 trips here. We often went on camping trips and he got to know all of my West Coast friends very well. My entire East Coast family adored loved and respected him. All three of his daughters visited me a number of times over the years. I visited him and Barbara regularly in New Jersey, sometimes even twice a year.
Many of the most important events and highlight of my life, Franz partook in. I got to know his entire German family in Germany that we visited a number of times over the years.
There was no one like Franz. A man of impeccable character, good judgment, finesse, refinement, generosity, patience, wisdom all the great virtues, that have become rare these days. He was a total class act in every sense of the word. There was never a time that we interacted that I did not learn something from him.
We spoke on the phone at least once a week. Sometimes for hours reinforcing each others political views. No one could ever take his place. I shall be allowed in my phone miss him dearly.
Go now with the angels. Beloved life long friend, to the great reward, you surely deserve.
Until we meet again, love always, Lou
