Edwin Gratz

Edwin Gratz, aged 82, of Dorr, passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2007, surrounded by his family. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII and was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge for which he received the Purple Heart. Ed was an avid fisherman and farming was his life. He was preceded in death by his son, Steve; parents, Frank Sr. and Anna Gratz and brother, Frank Gratz. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 54 years, Norine (Steffes) Gratz; children, Jim Gratz, Tom Gratz and Janet, Jeanne (Jerry) Van Wagner, Paul (Tracy) Gratz and Dan (Cheryl) Gratz; grandchildren, David, Michael, Kristy, Erin, Cara, Casey, Kayleigh, Bree, Shae and Mika. Also surviving sister, Mary Ann Gratz; sister-in-law, Josie Gratz; brothers-in-law, Marvin (Pat) Steffes, Melvin (Maxine) Steffes; sisters-in-law, Armella (Ted) Zapolnik, Norma (Jerry) Hoek, Erma Szurna, Mary (Richard) Dilly; and many nieces and nephews. Edwin was a member of North Dorr VFW Post #7540. Parish Rosary will be 3:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary's Visitation Church in New Salem with Fr. Stephen Rodrigo as celebrant. Interment St. Mary's Cemetery, New Salem. Memorials may be made to St. Mary's Education Fund. The family will greet relatives and friends 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Arrangements by: Archer, Hampel & Kubiak Dorr Chapel 4330 18th St. (616) 681-2520