Martin Hedrich

Martin Hedrich Sr. of Crystal Lake was born to Eternal Life, Friday, May 8, 2015 at the age of 95 years.

He was the loving husband of 74 years to Rosina; valued and treasured father to Marty and Lolly (John) Kroos; loving and caring Grandpa to David (Lana), Scott Kroos, Heidi, Todd (Laura) Kroos, Tim (Noemi); wonderful Great Grandpa (Opa) to Nina, Nicole, Elizabeth, Courtney, Kari, Amanda, Justin, Austin, Bailey, Faith, Katie, Nate, and Micah. He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Phillipine Hedrich; daughter-in-law Marilyn; sister Phillipine Kunz; and first great grandson Jacob; he is further survived by other relatives and friends.

Martin was born in Liebling, Romania and by the grace of God was able to bring his family through Austria to the United States in 1950. This was done through the effort of his uncles, George, John and Jake Heisler, who were brothers of his mother and lived in the Crystal Lake area. Even though he always had an inquisitive mind he was never able to complete his education because he had to work in the fields in Liebling during harvest time. In the United States, he worked as an auto mechanic and eventually took correspondence courses in TV and radio repair, which enabled him to start his own business. In his spare time he loved to work with wood, making furniture and toys for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Memories of him abound in the various homes of his family and friends. He was also a great photographer, poet and writer. In his autobiography and other writings, he reflected on a life that was sometimes hard but also marvelous, spanning various countries and 95 years of memories.

Martin and Rosina traveled extensively throughout the world with family, including taking their children and grandchildren to Europe several times. He was able to visit his home in Liebling and reflected how blessed he was to come and live in the United States.

After his retirement he spent many weeks at their cottage in Northern Wisconsin trying to catch that elusive muskie. He enjoyed the time spent with his family “UP NORTH” and they loved being with him and cherished the joy that he brought them.

The many things he made with his hands will serve as a reminder of him, but more importantly he will be remembered for the love he had for his family and the sacrifices he made for them. He will be missed, but will be with us forever.

Visitation will be from 2pm until time of his memorial service at 4pm on Saturday May 16 at Saint Paul’s United Church of Christ, 485 Woodstock St, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Paul’s Church would be appreciated.