Robert H. Kringel, age 85, of Oshkosh, passed away on Friday, September 14, 2012, at Mercy Medical Center. He was born on December 27, 1926, in Eagle River, Wisconsin, the first son of Hubert E. and Elsie A. (Wilson) Kringel.
During Bob's school years he enjoyed sports like football, basketball, and hockey, where his claim to fame was being a "good athlete." After high school graduation, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy, attended radio school at University of Wisconsin-Madison, after which he was transferred to the West Coast. Later he was assigned to the USS Burns, DD588, stationed in the Western Pacific. Upon receiving his Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Navy, Bob returned to Wisconsin where he enrolled at Oshkosh Business College for a two year Business Administration course. It was there that he met his bride to be, the love of his life, Eleanor J. Youngberg. They were wed on September 3, 1949.
His working career was involved with heavy industry, mainly in inventory control and production planning with Wisconsin Axle Division, later known as Rockwell International. After 34 years in various administration positions Bob retired on January 1, 1986.
Many interests held Bob's attention but he really enjoyed time spent hunting deer and waterfowl, fishing, cards, gardening, golf, and Florida vacations. He was a past member and officer of Oshkosh Blue Lodge #27 F & AM, the White Shrine, past member of Oshkosh Lodge #292 BPOE, and the VFW.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 63 years, Eleanor Kringel of Oshkosh; two daughters, Lori J. Plahmer of Greenfield, Wisconsin, and Sharon B. (Allen) Kaddatz of Hortonville; four lovely granddaughters, Katie and Megan Plahmer; Andrea and Alison Heiting; four step grandchildren, Klint (Cassie) Kaddatz, Jayme (Mike) DeBraal, Jill (Eric) Breitzman, and Brian (fiancée Oshanna Butler) Kaddatz; seven step-great-grandchildren; a brother, Larry (Cynnie) Kringel of Fairfield Glade, Tennessee; three sisters, LaVerne Penoyer of Central Square, New York, Ione Lumley of Jackson, Tennessee, and Orlene Chrismer of Syracuse, New York; several nieces, nephews, and other relatives. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Diane Kringel.
In accordance with Bob's wishes, cremation has taken place and a Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, September 22, 2012, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Seefeld Family of Funeral Chapels, 1025 Oregon Street. The family would like to thank the entire clinical staff of the cardiac unit at Mercy Medical Center for the gentle care and respect shown to Bob during his illness. Thank you also to the staff of Seefeld Funeral Chapels for all their help.
Our hearts are heavy as we shed tears, but soon our tears are dry, and bring us a smile. Dad we know you are with our Savior – reunited with family, enjoying Grandma's baking, giving advice to Aunt Diane, singing with Dee and Art, playing cards with Jack, and your greatest talent, gabbing and reminiscing. We love you, Dad and Grandpa!