


1938
-
2023

On June 3rd, 2023, our Old Soldier, Harry Flintz left us to go on his next journey. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Born on April 13, 1938, in Berlin, Germany, Harry grew up in one of the most bombarded areas of WWII, Acer Strasse. From there he moved to Grefrath, Germany with his family that survived the war. He was the sole survivor of his elementary school class. Although he had a difficult childhood and suffered so many terrible tragedies of the war, he would have told you his childhood was good because it made him strong and resourceful. Upon graduation from the 8th grade, he went into an apprenticeship for drafting and steel construction.
At 17, he ventured out to make his way to America as becoming a citizen was his goal since childhood. He went all around Europe, learning to speak several languages including French, Italian, and Russian. He got on a steamer ship headed for Canada and arrived there ready to work, not knowing the language and having about $20 to his name. He started out working on farms, then the mines, and eventually he joined the Canadian Army and qualified for a coveted spot on their special forces.
While he was in the Canadian Army, he met and married the love of his life, his wife of 62 years, Helen. He loved her and their two children, Brian and Tammy with all of his being.
Upon their marriage, he joined the American Army in the 101st Airborne Division and began his military service and path to U. S. Citizenship. He was fiercely proud of his military service raising to the rank of Staff Sargeant and more than anything, he was proud of his American citizenship.
His work after the military was varied and fascinating and included owning a construction company, a brief stint in commercial acting, owning restaurants, a rest home, and finishing up in real estate.
Harry lived an impressive life and since coming to America, he always did his best to be a good husband, father, and citizen, putting many people to work and contributing to the country he loved so much.
He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife Helen, his son Brian and his wife Andrea, his daughter Tammy and her husband Rusty, his grandaughter Kaylie McDaniel and great-grandsons Xavier and Jaxson.