Juergen Pietzner

Juergen Rudolf Pietzner, 85, of Sheboygan Falls, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 25, 2020 at his home. Juergen was born on September 14, 1935, in Berlin, Germany, to Rudolf and Elli (Gill) Pietzner. Upon conclusion of the European war, US Colonel Gail Halvorsen, the "Candy Bomber", showed kindness and compassion to the surviving victims of war-torn Berlin by initiating the candy dropping campaign during the Berlin airlift. This compassion and empathy deeply impressed Juergen, which directly impacted his decision to emigrate to the United States and join the US Air Force. One of his greatest moments was being able to meet Col Halvorsen and forge a close friendship with him over the years. When Juergen emigrated to the United States, he was sponsored by "Mother Lucy" of Ohio, who became a second mother to him by taking him under her wing. He joined the US Air Force in 1958. While he was stationed in South America, he met Francoise d'Auriol. On December 14, 1963, Juergen was united in marriage to Francoise d'Auriol in Lima, Peru. He was stationed in various locations and served in the US Air Force and Air Force Reserve for 28 years.  He was a member of the EAA and the original CAF. Juergen was a religious man. He enjoyed aviation, reading, and was very proud of his German heritage.  Juergen is survived by his faithfully devoted wife of 57 years, Francoise; daughter, Caroline (Phillip) Niemann; son, Andrew Pietzner; grandchildren, Katrina and Christopher; two sisters; brother-in-law, Henry d'Auriol of Montreal, Canada; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Juergen was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, and three siblings-in-law. A private memorial service will be held to celebrate Juergen's life.  A memorial fund is being established in his name. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Father Richard Clifford and to Father Carlos Zapata for his spiritual support and friendship. For online condolences and additional information please visit www.wenigfh.com.  The Wenig Funeral Home of Sheboygan Falls (920-467-3431) is serving the Pietzner family with arrangements.