Franz Leopold Kernreich, 84, of Lolo, passed away on Friday, August 4, 2017 at St. Patrick Hospital, of an accident.

He was born on April 9, 1933, in Vienna, Austria, to Franz and Leopoldine Kernreich.

As a young boy, he lived through the tragedies of war and was still able to complete his high school education. Franz later moved onto a trade school, where he learned masonry work and became a supervisor.

He also was taught tailoring from a master tailor, making tuxedoes for the Philharmonic Orchestra, all by hand. He took great pride in his work, as he always did.

August 1955, he met the love of his life, Erika Maria Vybiral. They were later married on October 23, 1957. They had three daughters, Trude, Irene, and Karin.

In 1965, Franz and Erika decided to move the family to Montana, because of a housing shortage in Vienna, and Erika had a sister and brother-in-law already living in Missoula, Montana. It was an adventure, with many obstacles to overcome. They grew to love it here, and Montana became their home.

Franz did whatever it took to take care of his family. He landed a job at the Florence Hotel in 1968. He worked there until 1971, at which time, he started at Horner Waldorf; it was a real blessing. It later became Champion, and then Stone Container.

He met and worked with many wonderful people, in the 27 years he was there. He retired from Stone Container in 1998. He enjoyed being at home, and not doing the daily grind.

Franz was a great help to his wife, Erika, with her beautiful flowers, garden, visiting with family from overseas, and swimming at the Peak, and enjoying a good glass of wine or beer, he had great health to boot.

He was a simple, kind, and very hard working man. He will be missed more than words can say. He will live on in our hearts and memories, rest in peace my dear father. Mom and I were honored to take care of you, as you always did for us.

A loving husband, father, and grandfather. He leaves behind his loyal dog, Missy.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Erika, of Lolo, his daughters, Trude France (Tim), Missoula, Irene Kernreich, Helena, Karin Mascazine (Dave), Frenchtown, sister Erna Kernreich, Vienna, granddaughter, Jessica (Casey) Smith, Lolo, his sister-in-law, Elfi Rose, Rattlesnake, Christie (Jose), Oregon, Inge, (Neils), Sweden, brother-in-law, Peter (Eva), Sweden, his nieces Rosie Meltzer, Rattlesnake, Yvonne Busse (George), Wyoming, nephews Billy (Carla), Florence, Mike (Lora), New Mexico, and several other family members in Sweden.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Franz and Leopoldine, and a brother, Otto.

Franz’s wishes were to not have a service. Make a toast in his honor, and wish him well on his journey. We will miss you dad. I hope they have some great baked goodies for you, we will see you again someday. Prost Pa Pa.

Condolences can be left for the family at www.gardencityfh.com

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