Edward Neuenschwander

Neuenschwander, Edward Died August 6, 2013 at the age of 88. Eddie learned the value of hard work as a child growing up on a farm in Thierachern, Switzerland but also found ample opportunities for mischief and camaraderie with his two brothers, Peter and Hans, with whom he enjoyed a close relationship throughout his life. They helped each other, celebrated family milestones, and shared humorous observations. In Geneva, Edward trained as a tool and die maker before immigrating to Michigan in 1949. Within 18 months, he had saved enough money to buy a new car and head west. While visiting his brother Hans in Wisconsin he met Verona, the daughter of Swiss immigrants. It was love at first sight and they married four months later settling in Milwaukee where they spent the next 62 years raising a family and engaging in the Swiss community through organizations such as the Swiss Club and Swiss Singers. Edward worked for Cutler Hammer and then later Master Lock, where he finished his career in Research and Development. One of his proudest professional achievements was having a component he designed, used in the construction of the NASA Lunar Lander. Ed enjoyed putting his handyman skills to good use providing repairs for family and friends. With his inventive and mechanical skills he was able to fix almost anything, creating parts in his basement workshop where he could be heard happily whistling. As a loving and responsible father, Ed's life revolved around his family. He taught his children how to play checkers, be respectful and become self-sufficient. Edward was always up for an adventure with his children, whether it was fishing in Canada, camping in Yellowstone, exploring China, or visiting Switzerland to introduce them to their family roots. Ed was also a loyal and devoted husband. When Verona suffered a stroke in 2009, he cared for her and took over all of the household duties until they moved in with their daughter, Suzi and her husband in December 2012. Edward was by Verona's side when she passed away in June. Edward was a perfectionist and loved to immerse himself in a project. He was a thoughtful, spiritual man, who enjoyed helping others, and was active in his church. Throughout his life, he used his camera to capture meaningful moments. Never afraid to try something new, he went windsurfing at the age of 75. Ed loved rösti, Gruyere, Lindt chocolate, and bread in his morning coffee. He always carried a Swiss army knife in his pocket. Edward is survived by his brother Peter (Agnes) Neuenschwander, Milwaukee, WI; his children, Suzi (Jim) Schuenemann, Sequim, WA; Bob (Karin) Neuenschwander, Pullman, WA; Heidi (Ken) Kressin, Cannon Falls, MN; 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandsons. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made in his name toward the purchase of a memorial bench at Boerner Botanical Gardens. Donations can be sent to FBBG, 9400 Boerner Drive, Hales Corners, WI 53130