Fritz Koeppen

He is survived by his wife Erna; and two sons, Ernest and wife Denise Koeppen of California and Ronald and wife Gbemie Koeppen of Maryland. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Nicklaus Koeppen and Alessandra Koeppen of California and Maya Koeppen and Jack Koeppen of Maryland.

Fritz emigrated from war ravaged Germany to the USA in 1955. He immediately began work in New York’s famed Waldorf Astoria; where he later met his future bride, Erna. They have been married since 1959.

He continued work in the Hospitality field in Manhattan at the then “Americana Hotel,” later named the “Sheraton Center,” until his retirement. He personally catered to the needs of many heads of state, international dignitaries, sports figures, actors, actresses, groups and causes that shaped the fabric of this country at the time. An avid traveler, he spent summers traveling the eastern seaboard of the U.S. and frequent family trips back to Europe, both to stay in touch with remaining family as well as ensuring his family of a well-rounded exposure to their European heritage; but all along a humble, grateful and generous American.

Locally, his frequent daily walks around the lake at Mill Creek Landing were well known by all in the neighborhood, as his seemingly endless drive and energy, and cheerful demeanor were embraced by all, and it fostered a circle of camaraderie and support rarely found these days. The family can’t thank friends and neighbors enough for all their love and support. Most importantly Fritz was a strong, surviving, father and family-man, and he will be dearly missed by family and friends alike.

Mass will be offered at St. Bede Church, 3686 Ironbound Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188 on Saturday, February 14, 2015 at 1:30PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Fritz’s honor, to St. Bede the Venerable Church in Williamsburg. Online condolences may be offered at www.nelsencares.com.