Wayne Christian Fichtel, Sr.

Wayne Christian Fichtel Sr, 82, of Springfield, IL passed away on August 1, 2016. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Phyllis Astapkovich Fichtel, who is comforted in knowing he is at peace as he moves to his eternal rest. Also surviving are two sons, Wayne C. Fichtel, Jr (Cathy) of Asheville, NC and James P. Fichtel (Monica) of Muskegon, MI. Grandchildren, Christian, Eric, and Andrea Fichtel, one step- grandchild, Bonnie (Ryan) Fox and step great-grandchildren, Xander and Elizabeth Fox, will remember their kind and loving grandfather. Sisters, Mary Thomas (Dr James) of Morganton, NC and Arlene Shoemaker of Aurora, IL mourn the passing of their brother. He will also be deeply missed by many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Fichtel was born in Aurora, IL to Christian and Leona Fichtel, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Jerome Shoemaker.

He was a graduate of East Aurora High School and the University of Illinois-Springfield. He also attended the University of Montana. While there he spent a summer on Sula Peak serving as a fire lookout. He met Phyllis in Billings, MT where he worked for Mobil Oil. His work as a surveyor, cartographer and draftsman brought them to Springfield in 1963. He worked for the State of Illinois and in 1999 retired from Illinois Bell. He especially loved woodworking and gardening. He imparted his love for athletics and the outdoors to his sons. Wayne supported Springfield youth hockey, swimming and baseball. His community volunteer efforts included Habitat for Humanity, St. Martin De Porres, St. Johns breadline and SUSART. He was a swimmer and distance runner and was active at the Fit Club up to the end of his life. He was also a member of the VFW.
Mr. Fichtel was steadfast in his Catholic faith and a member of Blessed Sacrament Church. He is at rest with the Lord and is forever free from the trials of earthly life.

Visitation: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Tuesday, August 9th, 2016 at Blessed Sacrament Church.

Memorial Mass to follow at 11:00 AM with Reverend Jeff Grant officiating.

In the near future a Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery as well as a memorial service in Aurora, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to Blessed Sacrament Church, 748 W. Laurel, Springfield, IL, 62704 or to Alzheimer’s Research.