Karl F. Vonnegut, 86, of Franklin, died Monday May 16, 2016 at his home. He was the beloved husband of Hedwig (Imhaeuser) Vonnegut for the past 56 years.
Born in Unna North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany on September 27, 1929, he was the son of the late Friedrich and Caecilie (Windelschmidt) Vonnegut and, step-son of Heinrich Steinfeld.
Mr. Vonnegut grew up in Germany. He entered the Dominican Monastery in Vechta as Brother Stephanus where he earned his Abitur. He never took his vows as his desire for a family was too great. He earned an MBA from the University of Cologne in 1958. He resided in Plainview, New York for many years until moving to Franklin in 1995.
Mr. Vonnegut worked for Lufthansa German Airlines in both Cologne, Germany and East Meadow, New York for 35 years managing all of information technology for North and Central America. Prior to Lufthansa, he was an apprentice at Deutsche Bank.
He enjoyed photography and working in his garden. In the winters he worked tirelessly at finishing the basement. He took great pride in caring for his home.
Mr. Vonnegut cherished his grandchildren and enjoyed hearing about their many accomplishments. They were the love of his life and brought him peace and joy.
He was a selfless man who helped others before helping himself. He gave everything and asked for nothing.
Besides his wife, he is survived by his daughter Judith Hedman and her husband Eric of Needham and two grandchildren, Monika Lina and Jason Karl Hedman.
A wake will be held on Saturday May 21, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. at the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin 131 Main Street in Franklin (www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com) followed by a funeral Mass at St. Mary Church, One Church Square in Franklin at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider planting a flower or a tree to honor Karl’s love of gardening.