Heinrich V. Ring

Heinrich V. Ring, 86, formerly of Worcester, died Friday, July 11, 2008 in the Quaboag on the Common nursing center in West Brookfield.

His wife of 57 years, Irmgard E. (Holzwarth) Ring, died in 2004. He leaves three sons: Heinz Jurgen Ring of Auburn, Peter K. Ring Sr. and his wife Clara of Charlton and Dieter Ring of Crystal Beach, Fla., and six grandchildren.

He was born in Germany, son of Wilhelm and Kathrine Ring. He immigrated with his family to the United States and Worcester in 1956 under the Post-World War II refugee act with the sponsorship of the Highland St. Lutheran Church.

Mr. Ring worked 22 years for the Heald Machine Co. in Worcester. He assembled and packaged machinery for delivery around the world.

As a teenager, Heinrich was an accomplished gymnast. His goal to compete in the 1936 Olympics was interrupted when he was drafted to serve in the German armed forces. He loved music and was a talented self-taught accordionist. Most notably, he was a devoted husband.

The memorial service will be Thursday, July 17 at 2 p.m. in the chapel at Trinity Lutheran Church, 73 Lancaster St., Worcester. Other arrangements are private. The Athy Memorial Home, Worcester, is directing arrangements.