Franz L. Bidinger

Franz Bidinger sold my mother and father a Magnavox Television-Radio-Phonograph in 1953. I vividly remember watching Captain Kangaroo on it when I was 4 years old. I became fascinated with this wonderful blonde oak instument, and when I was a teen, I made many visits to Bidinger Music House to buy records and look at the new Magnavoxes. Though I was just a kid, Mr. Bidinger very kindly showed me the new merchandise and answered my many questions. This had such a positive impact on me,...

massive thanks to a true, yes, Gentleman. Love and warmest wishes from a former Kenosha teenager who spent uncounted blissful hours at the store.

Thank you for your lovely tribute to Franz. I worked at Bidinger's in high school from 1968 to 1972 and again one summer in 1973. I always enjoyed Franz's stories and his beloved Buick parked in the alley. Here is a picture of an old shoe shine brush (found in a Kenosha Yard Sale) that was a promotional item from his father's day.

To the family of Franz Bidinger:
On behalf of those of us who had the privilege to care for your Father, I would like to express my sympathy to you for your considerable loss. He was indeed a great gentleman who faced the adversities of aging with much charm and grace. We will never forget how he blew kisses to those of us who sang Happy Birthday to him on his 99th birthday. Such a charming gesture was very typical for Franz Bidinger and we will always remember him with great fondness and...

Thank you Sir for all the wonderful records I bought in your store over the years. I discovered things I never saw anywhere else and you helped me on several occasions. Godspeed.

Dear Bidinger/Weary Family:
Your father/grandfather was a very special man, well respected and loved at Milwaukee Catholic Home. He was interesting, interested, congenial and a delight to all who knew him here. He is missed and still in our prayers.
My best,
Anne Catalane
Development Director
Milwaukee Catholic Home

Franz has been been greatly missed by his friends at Milwaukee Catholic Home. He was a fine man..I'm sorry to miss the memorial tomorrow as I am out of town. I will remember him tomorrow..and always.

I had the opportunity to work with your father from 1972 until I closed the store in 1989. I found him to be a real gentlemen and great businessman. I learned a lot from him.
David Pauley
[email protected]