Cornelius is survived by his sister-in-law Angeline Colombo Hnatt, nephews, nieces, grand nephews and grandnieces. He is preceded in death by beloved wife Rose Marie of Fox Lake, Illinois.
Cornelius was born on July 11, 1926, in Beaufort, Missouri to Rudolph and Mary Wildhaber. He married Rose Marie (Colombo) in 1954. After moving to Fox Lake, Illinois, Cornelius continued to work for Ozark Airlines as a Captain for over 30 years. Over many years, the couple welcomed family members around the country into their home to enjoy one another’s company. His family will remember him as an intelligent quick-witted character who loved to spend time with all of them.
Cornelius was an accomplished airline transport, crop duster and private pilot who often flew family members in his Cessna 180 Seaplane. He was a member of the United States Marine Corps as a Pfc. during World War II serving as a mortar crewman who participated in the occupation of Japan.
Visitation Wednesday, January 2, 5–7:00 p.m. at Calcaterra Funeral Home. 5142 Daggett Ave. Funeral Thursday, January 3, 10:00 a.m. at St. Ambrose Church 5130 Wilson Ave. followed by Military Honors at Resurrection Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Cornelius’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Dementia Society of America at https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate.
Condolences may be offered at www.calcaterrafuneral.com.
The family would like to thank Michael Orestes and Cynthia Hnatt for their many years of monumentous efforts, care, dedication, support. and love they gave to Cornelius throughout his transition from his home and extended stay at The Village at Victoria Lakes.
