Arthur A. Wachholz, Jr.

Arthur A. Wachholz, Jr., 94, of Carmel, IN passed away peacefully in his home on July 31, 2020. He was born in Chicago, IL on December 5, 1925 to Arthur A. Sr. and Mathilde R. Wachholz. Art was predeceased by his loving wife of 60 years, LaVerne, and by his sister, Shirley Lombard. He is survived by his children, Jane Podell (Charlie), Jill Wachholz, Arthur Wachholz III (Debbie Osborn), and Gretchen Rans (Pete), as well as by six grandchildren (Wes, Jamie, Emily, Will, Brian, Karen), six nieces and many cousins. Art grew up in Chicago and attended Morgan Park High School. He was drafted out of high school into the US Army and served in the 99th Infantry during WW II. He was awarded the Bronze Star for valor during the Battle of the Bulge, as well as the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantry Badge. In 2012, he participated in the first Indy Honor Flight for veterans. Following the war, Art attended the University of Illinois, which he described as one of the most enjoyable times of his life. He was an active member of Delta Phi fraternity. After graduation, he began a long career in sales, working for Burroughs, Basic Vegetable Products, Stange Co and the flavor and spice division of McCormick Foods. Art enjoyed socializing with his customers, many of whom became life-long friends. Art met the love of his life in 1953. He saw her picture in the newspaper and learned she would be performing in the musical Brigadoon at her local church. Art told his mother he was going to marry that girl, and immediately went out to purchase tickets. After the play, he maneuvered backstage and introduced himself to the lovely and talented LaVerne, charming her immensely. They were married in 1954 and were a family of six by 1960. In 1972, Art joined Stange and the family moved to Carmel, IN. Art was an avid competitor and sportsman. He played baseball for Morgan Park High, the University of Illinois, and the American Legion. He was an enthusiastic tennis player into his 80’s. Art was an diehard Chicago Cubs fan, frequently taking the family to games, or else watching on WGN. His prayers were finally answered when the Cubs won the World Series in 2016. Art also adopted the Hoosiers, Colts and Pacers as his own, while never quite giving up on the teams of his alma mater. In retirement, Art and LaVerne enjoyed many trips together, including wintering in Scottsdale and in Florida with many friends. He often attended reunions and stayed in touch with cherished friends. Art had an outstanding memory for details about events and people. He enjoyed getting to know them, from soldiers in his foxholes to strangers he met on vacations. Art was expressive and had a unique sense of humor. He liked to do imitations, and told stories and jokes using a myriad of accents. He easily made kids laugh with his funny animal sounds, and entertained his own children with imaginative games and antics. Art had a knack for creating clever nicknames and often belted out tunes, especially in the shower, with his strong baritone – “The Impossible Dream” being a favorite in the cul de sac. Art enjoyed reading, especially history. Possessing curiosity and a keen intellect, he frequented the Carmel Public Library and often fired up his Kindle and laptop to learn more. Art’s passions included the stock market, politics and family ancestry. He even enjoyed cooking everything from pancakes and popcorn to pizza and pies. Art and LaVerne were members of the Carmel United Methodist Church. He will be missed. His family is greatly appreciative of the caring doctors, nurses and staff at the VA and Premier Hospice and for the support of caregivers Marie and Fred. In light of the coronavirus, no visitation or services are planned. Art will be interred at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens at a private family burial service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.