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Franz Stigler Obituary
STIGLER - FRANZ After a long extraordinary life, Franz passed away on March 22, 2008. Predeceased by his parents Franz, Anna and brother Gustel, he is survived by his loving wife Hija; daughter Jovita; grandchildren Melina, Corbin, Jason and Nathan; great grandchildren Mackenzie and Aidan; niece Christiane (Burkhard); special brother Charlie Brown; soul mates Jim, Anne and many friends. No flowers and service by request.
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796 Entries
Virgilio novo
July 14, 2025
Franz stigler is a chivalrous military man. I have high respect of him,
John Phillips-Chazik
December 17, 2024
To Mr. Stigler family....
When watching Schindlers List, there was a quote:
"When you save a life, you save the World entire". Franz Stigler was a Man that must have understood this and more! If we do not have mercy or empathy, what are we?
May Franz Stigler Rest in God's Arms and in God's Love.
John (a Jew from the United States)
Paul Kearns
December 16, 2024
Certainly an extraordinary man and life. I was based at the same airfield in Cagliari and near as I can tell parked my helicopter at the spot at that airfield he flew from. Probably sat in the same tree´s
shade though it was 70 years later.
Hallowed ground.
Barrett Tillman
December 15, 2024
I got to know Franz and Hija when se shared ramp space at Pacific Northwest airshows. Later I enjoyed knowing them at fighter aces association and history programs. Fond memories all round.
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Jim Roscoe
May 22, 2024
It is heartening to know there are good men on all sides in war. If only there were no war, so that good men need not fight.
Paul Kearns
April 10, 2024
I think I have read "A Higher Call" at least four times. I will probably read it many times more.
A man among men. Rest in peace Franz.
Rodger Bryant
February 1, 2024
God Bless you Franz, may you rest in everlasting peace.
Kyle McCracken
December 17, 2023
Franz, you are a good man and an inspiration to many generations. Though I never met you, I read your story at just the right point in my life to have made a major impact. May your story never grow old, memory never fade, and soul forever fly high with August.
Markus H.
December 15, 2023
first time i heard about Franz Stigler was in a Song of the swedish Band Sabaton.
The Song is called "No Bullets fly". Later i read the Book "A higher call" I was really impressed! R.I.P. Franz! Good Man!
Beth
June 6, 2023
I just came across this man's story and had to learn more about him. What a great man he was! R.I.P
Reed
May 27, 2023
Rip a Good man
HJM Burke
March 17, 2021
I recently came across this man's story and the emotions that I felt, were overwhelming. Being a vet myself, in my opinion, the value of life is priceless. I hope and pray to meet this man in heaven.
HJM Burke
Jochen Siegfried
March 13, 2021
Dear Franz
it is now almost 10 years ago that I read your story in "A higher call". Living not far away from Ulm/Germany where your dear friend Willy Kientsch is buried I was also able to visit his grave and there I told your story to my daughter.
Working as a teacher here in Germany I tell your story whenever possible at school. Thank you for saving so many life Franz. You shall not be forgotten ! God bless you ! Rest in peace Franz Stigler
Evangeline Lindström
February 9, 2021
He Was A Great Hero
Peter Hodel
January 26, 2021
My condolences to Mrs Stigler and family and also to Charlie Brown's family. I have just finished " A Higher Call". What a marvelously well written and detailed account of the devastating air war across continents during WW2 and the toll it took on the participants. The book documents a remarkable story of honour and grace that has impacted so many. Thankyou Adam Makos for writing an awe inspiring story that reminds us that the decisions we make can affect so many. Franz Stigler was imperfect like the rest of us. But, what a humble and true hero.
God Bless
Peter Hodel
Doris Padgett
January 10, 2021
Herr Stigler, it's been an honor to read about the extraordinary pilot and man. A fascinating life indeed, and a huge heart.
John P Chazik
November 12, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
John P Chazik
November 12, 2020
Thank you!
I have watched and read about you and Charlie....extraordinary!!! My mother was a European Jew and would have admired you
very much like I do! " Power is when you can take a life, but you do not" Oscar Schindler
Doris Padgett
September 28, 2020
I have viewed and read all I can about the chivalry of a kind and amazing man- Captain Franz Stigler. I would love to know more about his life , family and friendships von krieg and also the life in North America. I am somewhat the family "historian", as unsere mutter was also from Germany during this time. I cherish the stories she shared and salute Herr Franz and send blesseings to his family. It is with great pleasure to have and read A Higher Call.
Todd Martin
February 26, 2020
God bless you franz.. Im crying my eyes out hearing your story and learning of your adventures of life . Your military career blows me away.. I wish I knew of your final Resting place....
Henry Uldall
December 7, 2019
Franz Stigler a true aviator pilot officer for the Luftwaffe that fought for his country. Yet shows that were all human beings. Your shining example will forever live on in our memories. By teaching us that every passing moment is another opportunity to turn it all around.
to honour
and the value life.
-Henry
N L King
November 6, 2019
I salute you 1Lt Stigler.
Ben Creigh
September 25, 2019
I truly wish I had known this story when I worked with Franz at Hertz Truck Rentals in Burnaby in 1981. In retrospect,in his job as a lead hand mechanic he was a quiet,unassuming jovial,knowledgable,patient and gracious mentor to this 17 yr old worker in the wash bay. His story is amazing, but having known Franz for a very short time I am not surprised by it.
Pablo Cardozo
August 17, 2019
Your memory will last for ever in the hearts of the people who knows of your chivarly and honour. God bless you. you have not died, you have only gone to one more mission saving lives
S. Innes
August 16, 2019
It is an honour to know your story... may the Angels be with you
Sandgroper
August 7, 2019
A man of extreme honour, with a chivalrous heart, despite the consequences. It took a lot of courage and wit to pull off one of the greatest humanitarian feats of WW2. We salute you.
Richard Sloan
April 28, 2019
Richard Sloan greatest respect....
Jeff Crosby
March 24, 2019
Both of these men are to be honored as brothers. I am glad they were able to meet and become friends. The book was wonderful to read. May they be an example to the rest of us.
vee Dee
March 23, 2019
always in the hearts of people who salute you dear Frannz
Robyn Leonard
March 23, 2019
Reading your story Franz changed my life. Your honour and compassion, also shared by other German pilots is amazing. I also live my life always do the right thing
Thank you Franz. I hope to meet you someday in another world. God bless.
Flieger As
February 26, 2019
Ludwig Franz Stigler ... unvergessen! https://de.metapedia.org/wiki/Stigler,_Franz
william fox
January 7, 2019
Ruhe en Frieden Herr Öberleutnant! You were a man of compassion, fairness and loyalty to the brotherhood of the air even In times of war. Your fearless chivalry saved the lives of the men on the Ye Old Pub and half a century later you gained a brother in Charles Brown. Ruhe en Frieden to August as well. Well done sir ... well done
John Alfonso
December 5, 2018
May the air under your wings keep you steady , may your compass keep you straight. May the good lord lift you up and keep you flying .
Alan B.
December 1, 2018
I salute you Franz for your honor and decency. You are a hero to the families you saved through these generations and beyond!
LCDR William King and Ensign Thomas King at the beginning of my journey
Thomas King
September 5, 2018
Franz Stigler. You are the kind of man I strive to be. An honorable man. May god bless you and yours.
As part of your lasting legacy, I will live my life with honor.
CDR Thomas King, USNR-RET
Stefan Petzold
July 1, 2018
Fly, fighting fair, it's the code of the air. For that man that not see an enemy. He becomes a hero of mine.
Wally Nowlan
June 21, 2018
I just wanted to send my condolences to the Stigler family after reading " A Higher Call". What a remarkable and honourable man he was. Having lost my grandfather in Italy during WW2 I have always taken an interest in the events of the 2nd World War. When I picked up this book I found myself unable to put it down. I have come to realize that there was valour and honour on both sides of the conflict and Franz Stigler is perfect example of that. I wish I had the chance to meet him before he passed away. May he rest in peace.
May 22, 2018
I had a friend in England....He really loved the book...a higher call...he died a few years ago, but I always remember him, when I look at the cover of the book....
Gene Gomes
March 31, 2018
A Higher Call...Great book and story about Franz.....and also about his friendship following WW 2. Glad he was able to share his story. Wishing his family my kindest regards.
LTC, USA, ret. Rob Meyer
October 11, 2017
What an honorable man who never lost his faith, his conscience, or his courage in the great tragedy of WWII. Rest in His Peace . . . may God comfort Hija and the family forever.
Oberleutnant Franz Stigler - Deutsche Luftwaffe
September 29, 2017
Angel of the sky Oberleutnant Franz Stigler
September 29, 2017
Luftwaffe Hero Oberleutnant Franz Stigler
September 29, 2017
September 29, 2017
Oberleutnant Franz Stigler
September 29, 2017
September 29, 2017
Charlie Brown & Oberleutnant Franz Stigler
September 29, 2017
Oberleutnant Franz Stigler - Luftwaffe
Peter Kennedy
September 29, 2017
Vater unser im Himmel,
geheiligt werde dein Name;
dein Reich komme;
dein Wille geschehe,
wie im Himmel so auf Erden.
Unser tägliches Brot gib uns heute.
Und vergib uns unsere Schuld,
wie auch wir vergeben unsern Schuldigern;
und führe uns nicht in Versuchung,
sondern erlöse uns von dem Bösen.
Denn dein ist das Reich und die Kraft
und die Herrlichkeit in Ewigkeit.
Amen.
Chuck Schronick
August 27, 2017
A man's time on Earth is limited..but his legacy is eternal.
Thank you for showing the world over several generations, that there can still be honor in the most dire of circumstances.
Richard LEWIS
August 12, 2017
If the world was full of people like you Franz it would be a far better place to live in. I salute you sir for you kindness. Kindness is a strength. RIP.
July 26, 2017
The sort of man who restores my faith in the human race
Glen Burrill
June 26, 2017
Just read the book, A Higher Call. It is incredible to think that a person can live through such tragedy and remain a human being of love and compassion. So happy he had a good life in Canada. Wishing all his family health and happiness--Kind regards, Glen Burrill
John McLatchie
June 13, 2017
Truly an officer and a gentleman.
Candace
June 9, 2017
Thank you for your kindness towards Charlie Brown and the Ye Old Pub crew. Thank you also for later sharing this beautiful story. RIP.
Lee Costa
April 28, 2017
I recently learned about Herr Stiglers amazing act of decency Honor and courage during WWII. I would have liked to have met him to thank him for his humanity. RIP.
Peter Higgins
April 25, 2017
Having watched your interview with your Brother, Charles L Brown, I would have liked to let you know that your bravery and compassion brought a grizzled 51 year old to tears.
You Sir are the spark that keeps the flame of human kindess burning in such dark times as you lived through. God Bless you.
Merle Wright
April 10, 2017
Thank you, As a retired pilot would only know.
John
April 3, 2017
Even in the midst of the madness of WWII, an act of kindness to your enemy, at their most vulnerable moment, Franz. Thank you for your good deed, & RIP.
Joseph Johnson
March 28, 2017
Herr Stigler, you are truly a man of honor, a Warrior, a chivalrous knight of old and an inspiration to all.Your actions shall not be forgotten and are forever memorialized in print, painting and words. HORRIDO
Russell Ross
March 26, 2017
Franz, you have a new set of wings to wear. Fly high, brother.
Norman B.
February 25, 2017
Rest In Peace brave and noble soldier
Rebecca Hanna
February 24, 2017
Just finished reading a higher call...Franz stigler is an inspiration to us all...And reminds me that one person can make a positive change in the world with a 'simple' act of bravery and compassion.
Declan Kerins
February 18, 2017
I think the compassion Franz showed to Charlie such a long time ago is an example to us all.God bless his noble soul.What an amazing man.
Tony Zehnder
February 8, 2017
what a fantastic human being. This SHOULD become a movie. I have just returned from a trip to Berlin and I like the way the Germans do not shy away from their history.
January 11, 2017
Franz,
God bless you for your mercy showed to Ye Olde Pub. By now, God's mercy may have come back to rest on you. Thank you..
For forever,
Viking999
January 9, 2017
Franz, Friends take care of friends, and God takes care of soldiers--You are now in good hands. (Vietnam 1966)
Victoria
January 2, 2017
May you be comforted in knowing that "The memory of the righteous is due for a blessing." Proverbs 10:7
Steve Hopkins
December 17, 2016
The chivalry and honor of Franz Stigler in his decision to show mercy in a time of war is an inspiration for us all to do our best for others in tough circumstances.
Rest In Peace
Jason Akers
November 26, 2016
Mate what a great man , Franz Stigler will never be forgotten by me that's for sure I am so happy I read his story , My parents passed away 2011 and 2012 , I doubt there will ever be people like this generation again .
Martin LLoyd
November 24, 2016
Long after you have gone, the lasting impact of your act of Mercy is still felt, and example to all humanity, long may you continue to fly in heaven Franz, a true soldier and a gentleman.
Sean Hurley
November 14, 2016
God bless you, sir.
Lazaro Marino
November 3, 2016
Honor, Valor, Courage, Compassion,
There aren't enough words to describe you,
Know that everyday I pray to emulate you every day
Simon Robinson
October 27, 2016
RIP fella
Morris Jones
October 12, 2016
A courageous and honourable person, fly high
Letham cameron
September 28, 2016
A real hero, May you fly forever
September 18, 2016
Sir:
You will remembered and admired by all flying warriors as a true warrior who pulled the sword from the stone.
M Brown
September 12, 2016
RIP, a true Officer and a Gentleman.
August 23, 2016
Mr. Stigler,
You are a hero for all time. I thank you for your compassion for those who, at that time, were your enemies. You are truly an inspiration for people everywhere. Bless you and Rest In Peace.
Joan Beebe
Graeme Bregani
July 15, 2016
Thank you.
Martin Lieber
June 3, 2016
Truly a great man, someone I'll admire the rest of my life, I wish I could have met Franz. He is one of few men that inspires me to do the right thing. We need more men like him....R.I.P.
Mark Hupcey
April 28, 2016
What a true story of courage and friendship . And I am glad they were able to spend many years together.
Dean Marshall
April 27, 2016
An inspiring story of courage, skill, compassion, integrity and moral character. Thank you!
April 18, 2016
Channing Hitchcock,,, Fresno Ca.
An amazing story of War... and how in the middle two men truly experienced highest form of humanity.... I weep every time I read the encounter between Mr. Stigler and Mr. Brown...I was so ignorant of core beliefs that flew with the German pilots during WWII....my heart and mind have been for ever affected and changed....thank you, thank you....Sincerely C. Hitchcock
Twin Jalanugraha
April 16, 2016
To not kill, takes more courage than to kill.
Ken Kruger
March 11, 2016
What incredibly brave men.
Frans I salute you.Your courage was unbelieveable
Bill Newman
March 8, 2016
Reading about Franz brought a tear to my eye. God Bless Him
Stigler saving C. Brown of "Ye Olde Pub"
Ian Anderson
March 5, 2016
Mr. Stigler, you are an inspiration to aviation enthusiasts and people everywhere. Thank you for your heroic service and may you rest in peace.
February 25, 2016
RIP Sir, you earned it.
Robyn Leonard
January 2, 2016
Goodness and mercy came from a German fighter pilot towards his
enemy in WW2. Your Third Pilot blessed both Franz and Charlie by allowing them to meet in peacetime and to become brothers and
friends. Bless you both and your families.
Fly Free!
Charnese Miller
December 28, 2015
After seeing Mr. Stigler and Mr. Brown's story, I was filled with a deep sense of loss, for I will never have the opportunity to meet what can only be called "Men of Honor". Each man's family should be proud of the legacy they have left for the human race. I can only hope that I can live up to the standards (honor, respect, love, valor, and unselfishness) that they have set. Fly on the wings of glory in the bluest sky Mr. Stigler, because you will never be forgotten. RIP
Shon Brown
December 27, 2015
Mr.Stigler you represent the wonders of the human heart. A glorious man with unending compassion and honor. RIP Mr. Stigler.
Shon Miller
December 27, 2015
A wonderful story of honor and valor. Amazing Mr. Stigler. Your actions fills my heart. RIP
Martin Shannon
December 24, 2015
Valor,Honor,and courage are the only words to describe you RIP Franz!
Denis Hayes.
December 17, 2015
This story made me full of emotion, a truly remarkable man and story.
Larry Wojciechowski
December 15, 2015
Rest in peace Franz and Charlie...
November 27, 2015
WHAT A STORY: TO GREAT MEN WORDS FAIL ME.
Jeannie Hernandez
November 4, 2015
Dear Stigler family, my 6yr old boy and I started reading Franz & Charlie's story this year. Their story, the men Franz met in Africa, how they influenced Franz, and what Franz did for our boys is truly amazing. After reading A Higher Call, Franz, Charlie and all the guys are part of our family, we even have his picture up with Charlie and his crew.
We are so grateful to have heard Franz's story, and it will never be forgotten in our family.
We only wish we could have thanked Franz.
Blessings to Franz and his family.
Robert Armstrong
September 15, 2015
I picked up your book and couldn't put it down. A true gentleman. The world needs many more like you! RIP from a fellow pilot.
Meryci Mercier
August 18, 2015
Learned of this man's story. I want to shake his hand
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