Franz Heinrich Leiwes, October 10, 1939 - June 16, 2011, resident of San Jose, passed away peacefully at his home from cancer. He is survived by Barbara Leiwes, beloved daughters Christina and Carla Leiwes/fianc‚ Sean Walker, cherished grandchildren Connor, Caylie and Caden, Neices/Nephews: Petra Fittkau, Sandra Fittkau, Frank Fittkau, Stephanie and Fabian Fittkau and Christopher Ritz as well as his beloved dogs Luna and Jeffy. He was predeceased by his loving sister and best friend Gertrud Leiwes and her husband Paul Fittkau as well as his parents Getrud Hesse and Franz Leiwes. Franz was born in Germany and came to America via boat to NY in the early 60's. He served 4 years in the US Army and was honorably discharged. He worked at Alliance Tool and Die in Rochester, New York where he met his wife Barbara. Franzs' work took them to Sidi Bel Abbes, Algeria in the late 70's to train Algerians tool and die making. He was wonderfully proficient in his trade and was considered to be "the best". They continued to travel extensively throughout Africa, Morroco, all over Europe and South America. Franz and Barbaras' first child, Christina was born in Delfzyl, Holland where they owned a home. Their second child, Carla was born in Rochester, New York. Franz was an incredibly proud "papa" and absolutely adored his girls - truly his pride and joy. The family moved to San Jose, California in the mid 80's and shortly thereafter Franz started his own Tool and Die/Machine Shop - FHL Corporation. He built it up from scratch to become an extremely successful business and it has remained as such for over 20 years. His family is so proud of his success and accomplishments. Franz loved his family dearly, his dog Luna, and his work. He will be remembered most for his generosity, compassion, ability to fix anything, problem solving skills, willingness to help anyone, his joy for Formula One car races, his sense of adventure, perfectionist, late Friday afternoon beers with his friends at the shop and most of all by his family - his love. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 22nd at Queen of Apostles Church at 4911 Moorpark Avenue, San Jose, 95129 from 4 - 5 p.m. Mass will be from 5 - 6 p.m. followed by a Celebration of Life reception outside the church at 6:00 p.m.

Published in San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on June 21, 2011.

Note: US Army Veteran.