Obituary: H. Henry Carstens

In the early morning of August 3rd, 2016, H. Henry Carstens peacefully smiled and left this earth knowing his work was done.

Henry was born on September 11th, 1927 in Hartford, Wisconsin. He graduated from Hartford High School. Henry joined the Navy to serve his country during World War II, spending much of his time on Midway Island. When he returned from the service he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Arts at UW-Platteville where he was the year book editor. While teaching and raising his family he continued on to earn his Master’s Degree at UW-Stout.

Henry taught in the Wisconsin cities of Hustisford, West Bend, and Wauwatosa. His love and passion for industrial arts was passed on to many students throughout his 33-year teaching career. In addition, he coached football and basketball, and taught adult night classes. During his summers off, he provided for his family by painting houses, working at Texaco-Jones Island and at Allen-Bradley.

Tinkering was Dad’s passion; he could fix anything. He enjoyed bread baking, jelly making, canning, woodworking, antiquing, and bird watching. Dad was a devoted Packer fan and took great pride in being a shareholder. He was a people person and enjoyed a good story and lots of laughs.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Greta and Hugo Carstens; sister, Myrl (Hunt); his infant son, Curt, and his former wife, Betty Carstens.

Dad’s love will live on in the hearts of his grateful daughters and son-in-law, Jane (Jim) Carstens Jorstad of La Crosse, Jill Carstens of Green Bay, Peggy Carstens of Sturgeon Bay; and loving granddaughter, Jena Jorstad of La Crosse. Dad’s family was the pride and joy of his life. He was delighted that his daughters, granddaughter and son-in-law followed in his teaching footsteps.

Henry will be remembered for his love of family, service to his country, and dedication to his teaching profession. He has shaped the lives of family and friends, so they too could carry on his work; to love and care for others, and have good laughs along the way. His selflessness, kindness and perseverance were an inspiration to many.

Henry will be dearly missed by his family and those who knew him.

A celebration of Henry’s life will be held on Oct. 9, 2016, at the John and Helen Collins Learning Center at Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay. Visitation and service times will be announced closer to the date of service. Condolences and guestbook signing may be offered at huehnsfuneralhome.com.

Henry’s family would like to thank all those who cared for him at the Dorchester, Cardinal Ridge, Anna’s Healthcare, and Rennes Health and Rehab Center.

Huehns Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Sturgeon Bay is assisting the Carstens family with arrangements. Condolences and guestbook signing may be offered at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.