Obituary for Lowell R. Hehl Sr.

My dad was born on April 14, 1944, to Frank and Arvilla (Schriener). He was raised in Eau Claire, Wisconsin where he also attended grade school and high school. He graduated from Memorial High School in 1962 and attended the Technical College where he completed coursework to become a draftsman. He met the love of his life, Karen Kopp, when he was 16 and she was 15 years old. He married my mom in a small ceremony on February 19, 1966. My parents were a perfect match; my mom was an extravert and my dad was an introvert. I used to joke with them that she wouldn’t listen, and he couldn’t hear. They were never too far from each other’s sides. Their love was one you dream of having someday. After they married, they made their home in La Crosse, Wisconsin. In 1977, they moved to West Salem where they raised their children and where he resided until the time of his death.

After my parents were married, my dad took a job at Trane Company as a draftsman. He worked in Building 12 for over 37 years. He first drew plans by hand and then by computer of HVAC units produced by Trane. He traveled to various Trane locations around the United States to get a better understanding of the units produced. He was a member of the 25-year club at Trane, which he took great pride in.

My dad was an avid Milwaukee Brewer, Green Bay Packer, and Wisconsin Badger fan. He enjoyed spending time with his family. He made many trips to the casino with my mom and usually won. He bowled at West Bowl Lanes in a men’s league and a couple’s league and even made a few trips to State Bowling. He was an avid woodworker and made several items for friends and family. I found a small dresser in a craft magazine and asked him if he could make it for me. With only a picture and the dimensions given, he made one for myself and my mom.

My dad had several health conditions that limited his activities later in life. He was diagnosed with COPD, which tremendously affected his life and tethered him to oxygen for the remaining years of his life. Five years ago, he was diagnosed with bladder cancer. A week after having surgery to remove the lesions in his bladder, he was diagnosed with stage 4 laryngeal cancer. He wasn’t discouraged by this news and from that day he had a warrior mentality and fought gallantly. On June 22, 2018, my dad had life altering surgery to remove the cancerous tumor that had overtaken his Adam’s apple and voice box, that was the last day I heard his voice. Surgery and radiation treatment effectively treated the cancer. Even though the cancer was gone, he still had to contend with COPD, which is an unforgiving and progressive disease. He was hospitalized many times in the past year and after the last one in April, he chose to enter Hospice, which allowed him to remain at home until his death. He fought as hard as could to stay, but in the end his body was too weak.

Survivors include his daughter Melissa Hehl and grandson, Kyle (Stephanie) Hehl, whom he raised. His other grandchildren Jarod (Sam), Kayla and Jacey (Nick) Hrabak, Cassidy and Courtney (Mike) Peterson, and Leo as well as great grandchildren, Brayden, Briggs, Jaxson, Carter, and newest additions, Lili and Maci. He is further survived by his son-in-law Brad Hrabak, brother M. Roy (Vilma) Hehl of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, sister-in-laws Rita Hehl of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Shirley Hehl of Barron, Wisconsin, and Annie Kopp of Burbank, Illinois, along with many loving nieces and nephews. He also left behind canine children, Kobe and Abby.

He was preceded in death by many who loved him; the love of his life, Karen in October 2018 and his children, Tamie and Junior in May 2022, as well as his parents, his sister, Audrey, and brothers La Moine “Mic” and Lyell. In-laws, Mathias Kopp, Effie and Carl Anderson, Wallace “Wally” Nelson, Tommy, Terry, and Matt Jr Kopp, Phyllis and Verne Melland, and Bobby and Janet Kopp.

After my mom died, my relationship with my dad blossomed. He became my confidante and my best friend. Our bond was strong, and I had the honor to be on his journey with him right up until the end. I spent many hours with him, chatting, watching games, doing odd jobs, or running errands. When he could not speak for himself, my voice became his. I was his advocate and in the end his caregiver, which was the greatest honor to have. I visited him several times a day, but the best time was in the evening. I’d put him to bed with a kiss and a “see you tomorrow.” I am thankful for each day I got to spend with him, especially his last days. Just like my mom, I wish he could have stayed forever. I miss you, Dad. Love, Melissa.

In accordance with my dad’s wishes, he will be cremated. A private family visitation is planned. At this time, there are no plans for a celebration of life. A special thank you to Gundersen Lutheran Hospice, especially Nikki and Michelle, who were with him in the end, Dr. Matthew Sdano and Dr. Patrick Conway for giving me 5 more years with my dad after his cancer diagnosis. Memorials, messages, and cards may be sent to Melissa Hehl, 604 Campfire Drive, West Salem, WI 54669.