Karl Wagenknecht, Sr.

Karl J. Wagenknecht, Sr., age 94, of Toledo, passed away Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at Harborside Healthcare of Swanton where he had been a patient for the past six months. He was born on August 4, 1912 to John and Mayme (Fuehr) Wagenknecht in Toledo. Karl and his brother Raymond owned and operated the Star-Elling Rug Cleaning Company which was founded by their father in 1901. Karl was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during World War II. He was a lifelong member of the Apostles Evangelical Lutheran Church now known as New Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church. Karl had many hobbies including photography, woodworking and a HAM radio operator.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, brother, Raymond, sisters, Madeline Bury and Helen Girardi. Karl is survived by his children, sons: John (Joanne), Karen (Richard) Haight, Karl Jr. (Joan) and Jim (Cathy); several grandchildren and great grandchildren; cousin: Irmajean Rutkowski; sister-in-law: Theda Wagenknecht; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive guests on Sunday, April 15, 2007 in the Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300) from 2 – 8:00 p.m. Funeral Services will begin Monday at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Officiating will be Pastor Andre Frandle. Interment will follow in Ottawa Hills Memorial Park.

Those wishing to make monetary donations are asked to consider Harborside Healthcare of Swanton, Heartland Hospice or to the church.

Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.NewcomerFamily.com.

The family would like to thank the staff of Harborside Healthcare of Swanton for the excellent care Karl received and to Heartland Hospice.