Ferdinand Von Hapsburg

Ferdinand Von Hapsburg passed away quietly in the warm comfort of his home on Friday, April 3, 2015 shortly before sunrise. During his last few days and throughout much of his life, Ferdinand found comfort from the loving embrace and unending devotion of his loving wife, Macrina Von Hapsburg who survives him with the support and love of his children, Gabriela, Roman, Irene, Sofia, Deborah, Helen and Herman, his many wonderful grandchildren and large, extended family. His eldest son, Fernando Von Hapsburg precedes him in death and now accompanies him on his new journey.

Ferdinand, “Nando” was born in Los Angeles, California on November 15, 1931. His family moved to Mexico City in 1935 and he remained there until 1974. Since then, Ferdinand resided in McAllen, TX, Westport, CT, and moved to Austin, TX in 1984 where he remained until his death.

In Mexico, Ferdinand owned and operated two businesses and promoted a book titled, “The Virgin and The Serpent God”, written by his mother, Helen Behrens. This book and its promotion became a central part of the life of Ferdinand and his family. His love and devotion for the Virgin of Guadalupe, Mexico, and its wonderful culture never wavered and made itself evident until his last breath.

Ferdinand loved to paint and confirmation of this love hangs on the walls of many people. His artistry was evident in the many sketches he drew on napkins or any flat surface worthy of his pen. Ferdinand’s greatest achievement was his love and devotion for his wife and each and every one of his children. His love was expressed in the form of selfless service and constant encouragement for those he held close and for strangers as well, making him the sort of individual who many outside his family considered a father as well. To them, his love was also clear and strong.

A public visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. followed by a Rosary at Cook-Walden Chapel of the Hills Funeral Home, located at 9700 Anderson Mill Rd. Austin, TX 78750. The Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at 11:00 a.m.

Condolences and memories may be left in the online guest book at CookWaldenChapeloftheHills.com.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to Altus Hospice, 11233 Shadow Creek Pkwy., Suite 313, Pearland, TX 77584.