George L. Pongratz, age 88, of Omro, passed away Wednesday, February 13, 2008, at Mercy Medical Center in Oshkosh, and has been reunited with his beloved wife, Viola. George married Viola Roseno on December 8, 1941, at SS Peter & Paul Church in Wisconsin Rapids. He was born November 18, 1919, in Auburndale, Wisconsin, the son of George and Amelia (Hornick) Pongratz. He served in the U.S. Army, in the South Pacific, from March 1942 to August 1945. George had worked at Morgan Doors for 27 years before retiring. George loved the outdoors. Farming was an enjoyment of his, until the family moved to the city. Gardening and long walks then became a favorite past time of his. Another pleasure of George's was playing polka tunes on his accordion.

George is survived by his eight children, George III (Darlene) Pongratz of Sherry, WI; David Pongratz of Oshkosh, Georgiana Collins of Oshkosh, Jerome (Sharon) Pongratz of Omro, Caroline (Steve) Hobbs of Oshkosh, Karen (Rick) Beyer of Indiana, Michael Pongratz of Poy Sippi and Lester (Jane) Pongratz of Borth; eighteen grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren; his sister, Margaret; brother, Jake; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, and will be greatly missed by all. George was preceded in death by his wife Viola; his son, James; his grandson, Daniel; his parents, George and Amelia Pongratz; his brothers, Frank, Andrew, Ray and Walter; and his sisters, Irene and Matilhda. All of George's grandchildren and great grandchildren were thought of often and loved deeply.

Visitation will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 233 E. Scott St., Omro, on Monday, February 18, 2008 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Joseph Mattern and Sr. Pam Biehl officiating. George will be laid to rest in Omro Cemetery. A memorial is being established for St. Mary's Catholic Church, where George was a long standing member.